Page 9 of Forbidden Harvest

For a second, I panic. But I’m prepared for this.

“No,” I lie smoothly. “I wish I had been. Maybe I could have... done something.”

Aria’s lip trembles, and she starts crying again. Without thinking, I reach out and pull her into my arms. She doesn’t resist, burying her face in my chest.

The feeling of her against me is intoxicating. I’ve dreamed of this for so long, imagining how holding her would feel. The reality is even better than I ever imagined.

“Shh,” I murmur, stroking her hair. “It’s okay. I’m here.”

As I comfort her, I feel triumphant. Aaron is gone. He can never touch Aria again. She’s mine now, just like she should be.

I know I should feel guilty. I know I should regret what I’ve done. But I don’t. Not even a little. Because holding Aria like this, I know it was all worth it.

I hold her until she stops crying, enjoying every moment of her vulnerability. As she pulls away, wiping her eyes, I feel protective of her.

“You should eat something,” I say, pointing at the plate of lasagna. “Your mom’s worried about you.”

Aria nods and reaches for the food. Her hand trembles, and I steady it with my own. Our eyes meet, and for a moment, I see a flicker of something—gratitude, maybe?—in her gaze.

“Thanks, Jared,” she murmurs.

I watch as she takes a small bite. I’m taking care of her. Protecting her. Like I should.

“You know,” I start casually, “if you need anything—anything at all—I’m here for you.”

Aria looks surprised. “Really? I thought... I mean, you’ve never really...”

“I know,” I cut in. “But things change. You’re my sister, after all.”

The word ‘sister’ tastes bitter on my tongue, but I force it out anyway. It’s what she needs to hear right now.

Aria’s lips curve into a small, hesitant smile. “That’s... nice of you, Jared.”

I shrug. “Don’t get used to it. I still think you’re a pain most of the time.”

Her smile falters, and I immediately regret my words. Old habits die hard. But I can’t let her see how much I truly care. Not yet.

“But,” I add quickly, “you’re my pain. And nobody else gets to mess with you, got it?”

Aria’s eyes widen, and she nods. “Got it.”

As I leave, I feel mixed up inside. I want to protect her but must act like I don’t care too much. But one thing is clear: Aria is mine to protect. And I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe from everyone but me.

7

ARIA

AGED 16

It’s my sixteenth birthday, and I’m at Lisa’s big Halloween party. All my friends are here, dressed in costumes. The dance music pumps through Lisa’s living room while people move to the beat.

I sip my punch, letting the sweet liquid cool me down after dancing my heart out. Scanning the room, I see Eva waving me to the snack table laden with chips, candy, and a huge birthday cake.

I make my way over to her and give her a hug. “This party is amazing! Thanks for helping Lisa put it together.”

Eva grins. “Of course, girl! We had to make sure your sweet sixteen was one to remember, especially while Lisa’s parents were out of town.” She stuffs a handful of chips into her mouth.

As I reach for a brownie, I feel like someone’s watching me. I glance around, but everyone is busy dancing or talking.

---