A/n : 10k+ words ... (Surprise)

I know it will be hard for you guys to comment on this chapter because of it's length but if possible then please do it ... It took so much effort to pour out my emotions while writing this chapter😢. (I won't make longer chapters from now on, it's just I want this plot to end in a single chapter that's why... sorry)

Do votes and comments please 🥺.

Author's P.O.V.

"Please tell me you didn't mess something up," Mason says.

Michael rolls his eyes and gives Mason a look of pure exasperation. "If I fucked up, then why did he call you ?"

Mason rolls his eyes as well. "Maybe because you drag my name into your problems again ?"

"Will you stop assuming, please ?" Michael looks at him blankly.

"Oh, obviously, why not ? It's not like we're standing outside a lion's den, just waiting to get caught in its claws, right ?" Mason says, sarcastically.

"You are so annoying," Michael mutters.

"At least I'm sane enough to know that I haven't done anything wrong recently," Mason says, raising his hands in mock surrender.

Michael smirks. "Oh, really? Well, then, who wrote 'Fuck you' on Mrs. Cummin's car?"

Mason's eyes widen. "How do you know about that ?"

Michael smirks again. "I'm your brother. I know everything about you."

Mason rolls his eyes. "She deserved that."

Michael frowns. "Why ? She's just back from a three-month honeymoon. What did she do to piss you off ?"

Mason mutters, "She asked where Olivia was, and when Mia told her about Olivia's accident, she said Olivia deserved it because she was rude to everyone and that karma was catching up to her."

Michael's eyes widen, and his jaw clenches in anger.

"What the fuck ?"

"Exactly," Mason sighs.

"Let's go and paint her house too," Michael says, gritting his teeth as he glares into the distance.

Mason smirks. "Dy already did that."

Michael frowns. "Why ?"

"What do you mean, why ?"

"I mean, why would he do that ?"

Mason rolls his eyes. "Because he cares about Olivia too."

Michael narrows his eyes. "Are you sure he's not in love with Olivia?"

Mason's head snaps toward Michael. "No... what are you talking about? He's not interested in Olivia."

Michael shrugs. "Just checking."

Mason quickly shakes his head. "No... he only thinks of Olivia as a friend. Don't worry."

Michael nods but then suddenly smirks. "You know what?"

Mason raises an eyebrow. "What?"

"Sometimes I think Jack is right about you two being a couple—"

"Shut up, or I'll sew your mouth shut while you sleep," Mason threatens.

Michael laughs, raising his hands in mock surrender.

Mason rolls his eyes. "Stop laughing... Now I'm getting anxious, thinking about why Will called us."

Michael raises an eyebrow. "Why anxious? Just go in and ask him directly." He shrugs nonchalantly.

"No... I'm not going in first. You're older than me; you should go first," Mason argues.

Michael narrows his eyes. "There's no rule, Mason, that says the eldest should go in first."

Mason finds himself momentarily speechless. But before he can respond, a voice startles them.

"Are you both coming inside, or should I come out there ?"

They freeze in place.

Mason and Michael straighten, exchanging one last uneasy look before opening the door and stepping inside.

William's office is simple yet elegant. The walls are painted a soothing, deep blue, with a large, sturdy desk at the center, stacked neatly with files and a polished nameplate that simply reads, 'William Hernandez.' Bookshelves line the walls, filled with everything from law books to family photos, little reminders of both his professional and personal life. A single lamp casts a warm glow softening the space.

"What happened, Will ?" Michael asks seriously, noticing the tension in his older brother's conflicted expression.

William looks from him to Mason, who has also turned serious. His gaze lingers on the two of them.

They are his little brothers. He wasn't lying when he admitted he was a bit biased toward Olivia, but that doesn't mean he loves his brothers any less. If he could bring the world to his sister's feet, he could just as easily burn that world down if his brothers were hurt. If he could take a bullet for Olivia, he could just as easily kill for his brothers. For Olivia, he could be the gentlest man alive; for his brothers, he could become the most ruthless if anyone dared harm them. He loves them to death. He is not at all ashamed to admit that he is the one who spoiled them to the core.

He still remembers the day he forged their father's signature on Michael's basketball consent form. For Michael, it became one of his happiest memories. For William, that was one of the happiest yet most painful memories.

When their father found out, let's just say it wasn't a great day for William. But did he ever regret forging that signature ? No. Never. In fact, he felt a surge of pride when Michael came home with a shining trophy and a million-dollar smile on his face. In that moment, he knew he'd do anything to keep that precious smile intact.

💭 Flashback 💭

William is pacing around the living room, deep in thought, his brow furrowed as he looks over his homework.

"Willyyyy" a burst of giggles echoes from the hallway, followed by the sound of tiny feet pattering across the wooden floor.

William turns around only to see his five year old brother.

Five-year-old Mason appears, his face alight with mischief, his arms held high as he charges towards William with boundless energy.

William barely has time to look up before Mason crashes into him, clinging to his older brother's leg with all his might. "Willy, Willy!" he chirps, eyes wide with excitement. "Guess what ?"

William raises an eyebrow, fighting a smile. He picks him up in his arms.  "What, Masey ?" he says copying his little brother's energy.

"I learned to tie my shoes !" Mason exclaims, lifting one foot to proudly display his tiny sneakers, laced into an impressive tangle of knots. "See ?"

William chuckles, crouching down to get a better look. "Wow, that's... definitely tied, Masey."

Mason puffs out his chest, pride shining in his eyes. "Took me a whole hour, but I did it all by myself!" He suddenly wraps his little arms around William's neck, hugging him with all the strength his small frame can muster.

"Now we both can tie Livvy's shoe-lace." He grins.

William chuckles at that. He's the same age as Olivia, but seeing his brothers treat her like a princess, he tries to do the same. He always saw how easily everyone could lift her, so he once tried to lift Olivia himself—even though she was his size—resulting in both of them tumbling to the ground.

William adores his little man. Even though Mason always tries to act like a big guy, they all know he's still just a kid. His brothers never miss a chance to remind him that he's their baby, just like Olivia.

"Okay" He says, hugging him close.

Mason giggles. Kids and their obsession with random giggles.

Mason suddenly pulls away, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Will... you know what would be even cooler than tying shoes ?"

William tilts his head, already suspicious. "What ?"

"If we had... a fort. A super big, super secret fort!" Mason's eyes sparkle with excitement, and before William can answer, Mason's already wriggle out from his hold.

He tugs his hand, leading him toward the couch.

"Let's make a fort, Willy... We will become the protectors of that fort. You will be the co-captain and I am the Boss." He grins.

William chuckles, "Ok Boss"

"We have to defend this place from... The Evil Cat ! This place is the home of the princess"

Mason tilts his head up slightly, with a finger on his chin, "Umm we will make Livvy our Princess... and anyway, she keeps playing with her Dolly. We will put both of them inside our fort and protect them from that Evil Cat."

William raises his eyebrow amused, "Oh that's great idea... We can put Lia and her Dolly inside the fort. But, who will become our Evil Cat ?"

Mason looks here and there and leans towards William with a evil smile.

"We will make Jacky our Evil Cat."

William laughs out loud, "Why ?"

"And whenever I'm busy with my work, he'll suddenly come, pick me up upside down, smack my butt two or three times, and then say, 'What's up, little shit ?' I told him I'm not little, but he just laughs it off." Mason scrunches his little nose in annoyance.

William slightly widens his eyes. He'll have to have a little chat with his other little brother.

"He's so evil. That's why he is an Evil Cat." Mason huffs.

"You are right. We will definitely make him an Evil Cat." William says, in a matching tone.

💭 Flashback Ends 💭

"Will"

William shakes his head slightly. Time flies, isn't it ?

He looks at his now not so little brothers.

"I need to ask you both something, and I want the truth," he begins.

Mason and Michael look at each other and gulp a little.

"Did Mr. Hern- Dad...ever lay his hands on you ? I'm not talking about discipline—I mean, did he ever hit you ?"

The question takes them both by surprise, and they exchange quick glances before Michael, fidgeting slightly, finally answers. He clears his throat. "Occasionally, yeah, if we really messed up, he'd... you know, slap us around a bit. Nothing...too serious."

William tenses slightly. What does 'occasionally' mean here ?

"What do you mean, Mike ? Occasionally ? Like... he just slaps you, or... or maybe—"

Michael's face shifts from curiosity to shock, his eyes widening as realization dawns. He stares at William, his voice barely a whisper as he asks, "You mean to ask if he abused us ?"

Mason's expression mirrors the same shock, his mouth opening slightly, trying to process the question. Michael's blood runs cold, and he looks at William with his angry eyes.

Although that anger was not for William.

Mason stammers, "They're not... good parents. Far from good.... but I—I don't think they're abusive, Will."

William sighs, his shoulders sagging slightly as he glances between his two brothers.

How is he supposed to tell them the truth ?

Is it even necessary ?

But to know if they are abused or not, it is necessary.

He opens his mouth to speak but falters, his mind racing through painful memories he had long buried.

Before William can continue, Michael speaks up again, his voice a shaken whisper. "Why did you ask like that, Will ? Did they ever... did they ever a-abuse you ?"

William's gaze flickers up, locking eyes with Michael. His silence answers everything. Mason gasps, his eyes widening further as shock takes over his face again. Michael and Mason glance at each other, with disbelief and horror in their expressions, and William knows he can't hide anything now. Slowly, he nods his head.

William sighs, "Mr and Mrs Hernandez were always abusive. They will beat us when they think we stain their reputation in the public. They will abuse in the name of discipline."

Mason and Michael's eyes widen at the revelation.

Michael's fists clench tightly, his knuckles turning white, his whole body rigid with anger.

Mason sits frozen, his gaze locked onto William as if trying to process each word with painful precision.

Every sentence seems to draw the color from their faces as they listen in shocked silence.

William continues, his voice growing softer, the pain evident in his eyes. "And it wasn't just me. After I left... they turned on Olivia. She was just a kid, and they... they made her life hell."

Mason's breath hitches, his hands gripping the arms of the chair as if trying to ground himself in the midst of the horrifying revelations. Michael, however, is shaking now, a barely contained rage. His teeth are clenched, and his face is set in a hard line, every muscle tense.

"They did this to Olivia ?" Michael whispers, his voice low and filled with fury.

William nods, "Behind everyone's backs. I didn't find out until recently, but by then... it was too late. She endured so much, and there was nothing I could do."

He grits his teeth, his jaw clenching as the image of Olivia's scar comes to mind. If he could, he'd give her abusers a matching scar.

"W-What ? But why don't we know anything about it ?" Mason asks, gritting his teeth.

"They would wait until everyone was out of sight," William continues, his voice growing softer, the pain evident in his eyes.

He tells them everything. From Olivia's scar to her confession about their parents' abuse.

Mason and Michael sit in stunned silence, their emotions cycling between shock, anger, and disbelief. Mason's jaw is clenched so tightly it seems it might snap, and Michael's hands tremble, barely holding back his fury.

Finally, Michael stands, his face darkening with a rage. "I'm going to kill that good-for-nothing father," he growls, his voice a low, deadly promise.

William watches them both, understanding their reactions all too well; after all, he was in their place months ago. This reaction is natural for any brother who learns his sister has been hurt or abused, but he knows he has to keep them from doing anything reckless.

"Calm down, Mike," he says gently, "They're in jail now. They're getting their punishment."

Mason's head snaps towards him, "T-They are in jail ?"

"THE HELL THEY ARE," Michael snaps, practically spitting out the words. "Punishment isn't enough for what they did. I will fucking kill them."

"Michael," William says sharply, "I know you are angry and you have every right too. But, they are already getting their punishments. So, it's better, if you will calm yourself down."

Michael scoffs, "How can you stay so calm, Will ? I really want to kill them."

William meets his gaze. "Trust me, I want that too. But I'm not letting you take the law into your own hands, Michael."

"Does that mean they get to live happily after coming out of jail ?" he glares at his older brother.

William smirks. "Do you take me that lightly, Mike ? Trust me, I'm going to make their lives hell. They won't be getting out of jail anytime soon."

Mason frowns, "How ? According to the law, for less severe cases, such as neglect or minor physical abuse, a conviction might be a misdemeanor. Sentences can range from a few months to up to one year in jail..."

He looks at his both elder brothers and continues, "And in Severe cases, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, or any form of serious injury can result in 2 to 20 years or more in prison, depending on factors. But... Olivia and you guys are p-physically abused so m-maybe they will be out in like 2-3 years."

Michael clenches his jaw, "Let them come outside... I will kill them then only." He grits his teeth, glaring at nothing.

"No ... They are not going to come out from the Jail. They are going to die there only." William says, coldly. His voice sends shiver down the spine.

He looks at his brothers, "Michael sit down. I called you guys here to ask you something."

Michael grits his teeth, his chest rising and falling heavily, but he slowly sinks back into his chair, his gaze still stormy. Mason, his fists still clenched, nods at William to continue.

"Did he ever abuse you ?" He asks them.

Michael and Mason exchange a glance before Michael speaks, his voice thick with lingering anger. "No, not like that. There were a few times he slapped us if we fucked up, but... it was nothing close to what you've described."

William takes a breath of relief.

Mason nods in agreement, "Yeah... I mean, he'd hit us when things got out of hand, but never anything intense. I can't believe he was like that with you. Even Mom was like him. And Olivia—" His eyes widen as he looks at William . "Is she okay, Will ?"

Before William could say anything, Michael immediately stands up, "I want to see her," he adds, his voice filled with determination. "Can we go ?"

William knows this is not the question and to be honest, he knows they want to make sure she is alright. They are not going to sit silent if he will tell them to. So, he nods his head.

The moment he gives his approval, Michael and Mason practically bolt out of the room, heading straight for Olivia's room.

"Hazel was right. They're all fighting their own demons," William whispers, looking at the door through which they just left.

William steps onto the balcony, with thoughts racing in his mind.

He pulls a cigarette from his drawer, lights it, and settles into a chair that faces the vast, glittering cityscape. The lights below are a sea of tiny, flickering stars—a stark contrast to the darkness consuming him inside.

As he exhales, watching the smoke swirl into the night, his mind is anything but calm.

Olivia's face flashes before him, her helplessness after the accident.

He clenches his jaw, his fingers tightening around the cigarette. How did things come to this ? His sister should be laughing, dancing, living her life to the fullest—not trapped by an injury she didn't deserve.

No matter how many times he has these thoughts, they still don't leave his heart.

Maybe because he still blames himself for everything.

Why shouldn't he ? It's his fault, after all, that his siblings are silently suffering.

Not only Olivia but others too.

Hazel's words ring in his ears— Everyone is fighting their own demons. He closes his eyes briefly, letting the words sink in.

He should've been there. He should've fought instead of leaving the house. He should've kept track of his siblings. How could he have been so foolish to believe they were happy with their parents ?

Why did he ever think that the same parents who were abusive to him would suddenly become good parents for his siblings ?

But what he did, he did for his wife. How could he leave a girl after promising her that she would become his wife one day ? He thought his siblings at least had each other, but what about Hazel ? She doesn't have anyone except him.

He also has a sister. He would never want anything like that to happen to his sister... So how could he do such a thing to another girl ? He could have stayed at home, claiming his right, but he knew his parents wouldn't let his wife live. They would mentally torture and hurt her...

But what happened in the end? The very thing he feared... Not his wife, but his sister. His sister suffered because of his actions. In trying to save Hazel, how did he forget that his siblings couldn't live without him ?

Speaking of Hazel, even she has her own silent struggles, her own battles that she keeps hidden behind a brave face. He knows she's been carrying a lot on her shoulders—more than she lets on. He knows she so desparately wanted a child but her hormones are not supporting. Still, keeping a smile on her face, she is supporting his family like it's her own.

William sighs, his hand running through his hair in frustration. "How am I supposed to fix everything ?" he mutters, the question hanging in the night air, unanswered.

He stares out over the city, lost in thought. If I don't, who will ? he thinks to himself, a determination hardening within him. He knows he can't turn away now. His family has been through too much. He's going to have to be the anchor, the one who pulls them all back together—even if it means sacrificing parts of himself to do it. He looks up in the sky. A falling star catches his eyes.

"I'm not going to leave them," he murmurs, as if making a vow to the silent city. "I'll fight their battles with them. Whatever it takes."

A sense of calm settles over him, steadying the storm raging in his heart. The cigarette burns to its end, and he extinguishes it, standing up with a new resolve. He knows the journey ahead will be tough, but he's ready. For Olivia, for Hazel, for all of them—he's going to be the brother they need, he is going to be the husband she want, no matter the cost.

Meanwhile...

Olivia sits in her cozy room, the soft glow of city lights spilling in through the wide glass windows.

She sits propped up in bed, watching the beautiful world beyond the glass, feeling both captivated and removed from it all.

Wrapped in the warmth of soft sheets, she stares out, her gaze lingering on the towers that pierce the sky, the flickering lights of office buildings, and the occasional flash of a car speeding down the distant streets.

Beside her lies a half-eaten slice of pizza, forgotten between her racing thoughts.

A soft sigh escapes from her lips.

What should I do?

She takes out a photo frame from the drawer. She softly caresses the glass of the frame.

"I am stuck, Ria. I don't know what should I do ?" She sighs again, caressing photo softly.

"Should I forgive them? You know, Liam told me what happened that day. Trust me, Ria, it's not his fault at all. I really want to forgive him. I really want to forgive them. But my mind isn't letting me. I don't know what to do."

Tears glisten in her eyes as she stares at the photo frame.

"Y-You know, today, after years, we all sat together. We played Truth or Dare, just like old times... I loved every second of it. My heart feels content, Ria... I really want to live like the old days, when we were happy, when we were carefree. For that, I want to forgive them, I want to forgive each of them... But my mind refuses to settle, Ria."

She wipes the lone tear from her cheek.

"Every time I see them... my mind keeps telling me they're only here because my legs aren't working... that they pity me and they'll leave me again wh-when I-I—" a sob escapes her, "I don't know what to do, Ria. Everything is so damn confusing."

(A/N: This is truly what overthinkers go through... They'll think of every possibility, drowning in thoughts, and end up crying until their eyes run dry. If any of you feel this way, then you are free to message me anytime... I will always be here to listen you... Trust me, I am a stranger to you all ... I will never going to judge any of you... Just please don't suffer alone. I really love you all so fucking much.)

Back to the story...

Olivia clutches the frame tighter, her thumb brushing over Ria's smiling face behind the glass. Her own reflection faintly stares back at her.

She takes a shaky breath, swallowing the lump in her throat as she whispers, "I don't know how to trust them again, Ria. A part of me wants to laugh with them like nothing ever changed. But another part... it's scared. Scared that if I let my guard down, I'll end up alone again."

She closes her eyes, hugging the photo closer to her heart, "I-I- d-don't want to be a-alone a-again- R-Ria-" She sobs hard, "E-Even L-Lucas is n-not w-with me now- I- wil-l d-die-"

"Why is it so hard to forgive, Ria ?"

Her voice drops to a whisper, "Is my whole life going to be like this ?"

She wipes another tear that rolls down, biting her lip to hold back a sob.

She forces herself to look at Ria's photo again.

"I wish you were here, Ria. You'd know exactly what to say, wouldn't you? You'd just smile and tell me it's okay, that I'm not weak for feeling this way. That maybe... maybe it's okay to feel hurt and still want to forgive. I am S-Sorry, because of me- y-you-"

She shuts her eyes close, not wanting to think in that direction.

Olivia pauses, her hand shaking as it hovers over the frame. "I just wish... I wish I could see them and not feel this ache in my heart. I wish I could believe them without this doubt gnawing at me, telling me they're only here out of pity."

Her voice cracks, and she presses the frame closer to her chest, her shoulders shaking as she lets the sobs spill out, no longer able to hold them back. "I miss them, Ria. I miss the way things were... but I don't know if I can ever go back. I don't know if they'll stay if I do."

A hollow laugh escapes her as she chokes back another sob, "What a mess I am, huh ? Here I am, wishing for something I don't even know if I can handle. Afraid to forgive... but too tired to keep holding onto the pain."

She sits there, silently. Her eyes dried out of tears as she stares at the city view, lost in her thoughts.

Just then, a gentle voice breaks through her thoughts.

"Penny for your thoughts ?"

Startled, Olivia looks over her shoulder and finds Ethan standing there, a warm smile on his face and a fresh pizza box in his hands. She gives him a blank stare, as he walks over and takes a seat beside her, setting the box down.

"You know," he says softly, glancing at her, "you'll feel better if you let out those thoughts."

She looks down, then back at him, hesitant. "Thoughts should stay in the brain only," she whispers, almost as if admitting a secret.

Ethan watches her quietly, the moonlight casting a soft glow on her face, highlighting the conflict in her eyes. "If thoughts are kept inside, they turn into overthinking," he says gently. "And trust me, Olivia, overthinking can eat anyone from the inside out. It's better to let it out, to share, even if it feels hard."

His words reach her, and she can feel the tightness in her chest loosening, even if just a little.

"Can I ask you one thing ?"

She looks at him in his eyes.

"Anything"

She stares down at the photo in her hands, her fingers grazing its edges. After a pause, she looks back up at Ethan, a question lingering in her eyes.

"Ethan... if your mind and heart tell you different things, who do you listen to ?"

Ethan raises an eyebrow. He didn't expect such a serious and deep question.

Nonetheless, he replies slowly, "That depends on the situation,"

She tilts her head, slightly confused.

Ethan takes a deep breath, glancing out the window as he gathers his thoughts. "There are times when listening to your heart is the only way to truly live, you know ? Like... when it comes to love, or family, or anything that really matters to your happiness. Your heart knows what makes you feel alive, what gives you peace."

Olivia watches him closely. His face is glowing in soft moonlight, as he continues.

"But there are moments when you can't ignore your mind, either. Like when you have to make a decision that affects other people or when you know that following your heart might hurt someone else... or even yourself. In those moments, I try to let my mind guide me, to think about the consequences, to make sure I'm not just acting on a whim."

She nods, processing his words, her fingers still tracing the edges of the photo frame. "So... it's like a balance, isn't it ?" she murmurs, half to herself, half to him.

"Exactly." Ethan's eyes soften as he reaches out, gently placing a reassuring hand on her head. "Sometimes, Olivia, your heart tells you what you want, and your mind tells you what you need. The trick is knowing which one to listen to... and when."

Olivia looks down, her expression conflicted. "But what if... what if your heart wants something so badly, but your mind keeps reminding you of all the pain, all the reasons why you shouldn't go after it ?"

Ethan's heart clenches painfully. He knows all too well what's going on inside her mind, why she's asking questions like these. But it hurts—hurts to see his 16-year-old sister carrying such heavy thoughts, thoughts that shouldn't even touch someone her age. This is the age for carefree laughter, dreams, and innocent mischief, not for grappling with the conflict between heart and mind.

And yet, here she is, his little sister—mature beyond her years, burdened with wounds she hides from the world. They planned this trip for one simple reason: to bring smiles to their family's faces, to her face. But here she is so broken. Hiding her broken self from the world. It shatters him to see her like this.

He gulp a lump, "That's the question you should ask yourself, Olivia"

Olivia looks at him confusingly.

He smiles at her adorable face, "I will tell you one story and you will get your answer."

She looks up at him, curiosity flickering in her eyes. He smiles warmly, sensing he has her attention, and begins.

"There was a mother once, who had a young son who loved to play outside. Every day, he'd run around, laugh, and play with all his friends. It was the thing that made him the happiest. But one day, while he was out playing, he tripped and fell. He hurt himself pretty badly, with cuts and bruises all over. His mother was devastated seeing him in pain."

Olivia nods, her eyes fixed on Ethan.

"From that day on," Ethan continues, "his mother was terrified of him going outside. She didn't want him to get hurt again, so she kept him indoors, telling him it was for his own good. Every time he'd ask to play, she'd shake her head."

"As days turned into weeks, the little boy grew sadder and sadder. He missed playing outside, running around with his friends, and feeling free. He'd cry and beg, but his mother always said no, thinking she was protecting him."

Olivia's eyes widen, "but that's wrong.", she mutters.

Ethan raises his eyebrow. "How ? She is just protecting her child, right ? Then how is this wrong ?"

"It's not protection," Olivia immediately says. "She is just scared that he will hurt himself again. In her fear, she is snatching her child's happiness."

"But her fear is valid, isn't it ? What if he falls down again and gets hurt ?"

"Then does that mean he should stop playing outside just because he fell down once?"

"Obviously... Shouldn't he ?"

"No, Ethan. He shouldn't," Olivia says firmly. "Just because he fell once, it's not fair to stop playing. A dancer won't stop dancing just because her foot gets sprained... A singer won't stop singing just because he has a cough."

"So you think he shouldn't stop playing ?"

"Obviously... He shouldn't. His mother has her own fears, no doubt, but that doesn't mean he should live locked up in the house."

"You got your answer," Ethan says, smiling proudly.

Olivia looks at him, confused.

"Our brain is just like that mother, Olivia."

He continues, "It remembers the pain, the falls, the times we were hurt. It tries to protect us, to keep us safe, by reminding us of the worst moments. But that doesn't mean we should stop living. Just because you got hurt once doesn't mean you should shut yourself away from happiness."

Olivia looks shocked.

"Life is like a playground, Olivia," he continues. "Sometimes we fall, and sometimes we get hurt. But we also laugh, we experience joy, and we find moments that make life worth living. Just because your brain is scared doesn't mean you should lock your heart away. Let your brain encourage your heart, let it remind you to be careful—but don't let it keep you from living."

She stares at her elder brother, her heart feeling lighter as if she has found the answer to her own question.

"If something is making you happy, then do it. Don't let your mind tell you otherwise." He ruffles her hair.

He sees how she is lost in thought again, but this time, she doesn't look confused—rather, she appears determined, and that makes him happy.

"But," he says suddenly, gaining her attention once more.

"Terms and conditions applied here too."

Olivia raises her eyebrow, "What ?"

"Obviously," he says, "this 'Do whatever makes you happy' advice doesn't apply to criminals. Imagine a robber saying, 'Robbing makes me happy. I won't let my mind control it.'"

Olivia lets out a giggle at that.

It surprises Ethan, but he loves it. He silently vows to keep her this happy forever.

Before they could say anything else, doors barged open making Olivia flinch slightly and Ethan's head snaps towards the intruder.

Mason and Michael barge through the door, their eyes immediately falling on Olivia. They stare at her for a moment, saying nothing, their expressions unreadable.

Olivia narrows her eyes at their sudden and dramatic entry.

"What are you both doing? You should have knocked before entering a girl's room... What if I was changing and yo—oww, what the fuck !!" Olivia groans as Mason and Michael suddenly pull her into a tight hug, their bodies colliding with hers.

"Shut up... Let us hug you," Michael mutters, kissing the side of her head.

She frowns, trying to pull herself out of their arms, but before she can, she feels a smack on the back of her head, making her groan again.

"What the fuck Mason-"

"Shut up... You heard him, right? Let us hug you," he mutters, kissing the spot where he just smacked.

Olivia looks toward Ethan in confusion, but he just shrugs his shoulders, clearly unaware of what's going on.

With a sigh, Olivia gives in and lets them hug her.

"Okay, enough of the affection... but now I'm feeling suffocated... so..." she says, pushing both of their bodies away with her hands.

They reluctantly pull out of the hug.

"Now tell me, what's all this? Why is this sudden affection rising in your hearts ?"

Though this was meant to be playful, Michael and Mason couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. Their guilt intensified tenfold as they realized how long it had been since they last hugged her, making her question their affection and love for her.

Ethan notices the change in their expressions and immediately decides to take matters into his hands.

"What do you mean by that, Olivia?" he gasps dramatically. "Can't two big bad guys hug their little sister?"

Olivia narrows her eyes at him, accusingly.

"I am not his little sister, Ethan," she immediately takes offense, pointing toward Mason.

Mason raises one eyebrow, amused. "You are."

"I ain't. We are twins. Same birthday. Same time," she glares at him.

He smirks. "I was the first one. 14 minutes earlier than you."

Olivia looks at him in disbelief. "Are you even serious ? Who counts that ?"

"I. Me. Myself," Mason replies, smirking and raising his collar.

"Obviously... You would," she mutters, rolling her eyes so hard it looks like she's trying to see the back of her head.

While they are arguing, Michael just can't take his eyes off her. He looks at her with admiring eyes.

Ethan smiles seeing Michael. His little brothers are not little anymore.

He slightly nudges Michael.

Michael looks at him, raising his eyebrow.

He silently signals him towards twins. Michael chuckles quietly, again glancing at twins.

But his eyes are on Olivia more than Mason. He doesn't join the argument, instead studying her intently, memorizing every flicker of emotion crossing her face.

The way her brow furrows when Mason says something particularly irritating. The way her eyes narrows when Mason says something stupid.

He notices how alive she looks !!!

"Why are you staring at me, Michael ?" Olivia snaps, finally noticing his constant gaze on her.

"Do you have something to say, or are you just here to silently judge me?"

Michael blinks, caught off guard but quick to recover. "Nah, I'm just admiring you like-"

Olivia raises her eyebrow at that but in a second, the amusement in her eyes turns into glare, when she heard remaining sentence of Michael.

"how wrong you are." he finishes it off with a smirk on his face.

"Wrong ? About what ?" Olivia crosses her arms, narrowing her glaring eyes suspiciously.

"That Mason's older," Michael says smoothly, shrugging. "He's right, you know. Fourteen minutes makes a world of difference. He probably learned algebra in those fourteen minutes while you were just figuring out how to breathe."

Olivia's jaw drops as she stares at him in disbelief, "What the fuck ?"

Mason laughs, throwing an arm around Michael's shoulders. "Exactly! See, Olivia ? Even Michael agrees."

Olivia groans, looking between the two of them like they've lost their minds. "Oh, great. Now you're both teaming up against me. This is just fantastic."

"Not teaming up," Michael says, grinning. "Just stating facts. Mason's been older, smarter, and—"

"Smarter ?" Olivia cuts him off, incredulous. "Oh puhhhleasee!!!" She drags her please, "Mason once tried to microwave an egg without cracking it first. It exploded. Everywhere."

"That was years ago!" Mason defends himself, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "I was experimenting. Einstein failed many times before he succeeded. That doesn't mean he is younger than you or less smarter than you."

"You're comparing yourself to Einstein now ?" Olivia asks, her voice dripping with disbelief.

Michael can't contain his laughter, doubling over as Mason glares at him. "I mean, she's got a point, Mason. You're more like... a mad scientist. Emphasis on the mad"

"Laugh it up," Mason mutters, though he's smiling, too. He turns back to Olivia, who's watching them both with her arms still crossed. "You're just jealous you didn't think of it first."

"Yeah, because I really wanted to clean up the kitchen walls after your little 'experiment,'" Olivia deadpans, her voice heavy with sarcasm.

Michael laughs out loud. Mason glares at him and smacks his head.

"You are supposed to be on my side." He glares at his elder brother.

Michael raises his hands in a mock surrender, still laughing his ass off.

"But- she got a point"

Mason rolls his eyes and turns towards Olivia, "Admit it or not. I am elder than you. That too, 14 minutes."

Olivia glares at him, "I don't fucking care. I am smarter than you."

"She is right." Michael laughs again.

Mason glares at her, and she glares back with equal intensity. Meanwhile, Michael is the only one doubled over, laughing his ass off at the twins.

Ethan watches the trio. His younger siblings' voices fill the room.

A small, bittersweet smile tugs at his lips as he watches Olivia roll her eyes for the millionth time, Mason's smirk like he won the argument and Michael laughing like he doesn't have a care in the world.

He sighs, looking up at the starry sky. Cool air burst against his own skin.

He notices a single star falling, streaking across the vast expanse.

Ethan closes his eyes.

Let this stay. Let her heal. Let us all heal. Let things go back to how they used to be, when we didn't need words to understand how much we loved each other.

Meanwhile...

Noah sighs deeply, the city lights stretching below him like veins of a living, breathing organism. He watches the distant headlights blur into streaks, his mind spinning faster than the cars below.

His mind just replaying the thoughts of his sister.

The sister he thought he hated, the one he believed he could live without. But he had been so wrong. The moment he heard about the accident, his entire world flipped. His heart felt like it had stopped beating. His blood ran cold, and his body weakened. He forgot how to breathe. The realization hit him like a tidal wave—something had happened to his sister, and it felt as though he was dying.

How could he have ever thought he could live without her ? How could he have ever believed he hated her ?

Jane always urged him to talk to Olivia, to clear up the misunderstandings between them. But he never could. How could he, when the echoes of his parents' harsh words rang in his ears every time he looked at her ? Those words, stayed into his mind, had built an invisible wall that he didn't know how to break down.

💭 Flashback 💭

"What are you saying, Mom ?" Noah asks, disbelief evident in his voice.

Amelia wipes her tears, her hands trembling as she nods, "Y-Yeah, Noah... That's why I'm saying, leave her..."

"No, Mom." Noah swallows the lump forming in his throat, clutching her hands tightly. "Y-You know, Mom—I love Jane."

Amelia cups his face, "I know Darling, I know... But, you love Olivia too, right ? She is your sister... Her opinion matters. If she's uncomfortable with Jane, maybe there's a reason. You have to consider her feelings too."

Noah's voice shakes as he responds, his desperation clear. "Mom, Livie is my world too. But this... this is different. M-Mom, Jane is amazing. You know, I've never felt this way before. Whenever she's around, I feel like I'm on cloud nine. I can't even put it into words, Mom—this feeling is so precious. She makes me so happy, and I can't imagine my life without her. I just... I need both of them in my life. Please try to understand."

Amelia wipes his tears. "I know, Noah, I know... But will you forget your sister because of the love of your life ?"

Noah immediately shakes his head, his eyes wide. "No, Mom, I won't... I can't. Livie is my princess, and she always will be. Even Jane knows that—my heart belonged to my sister first. But, Mom, I'll explain it to her. I'll tell her how much I love Jane and what she means to me. I know my Livie, Mom. She'll understand me... She'll listen to me, I'm sure."

Amelia sighs, turning away. "I wish... I really wish, Noah. After William and Ethan left, she's been scared that her other brothers will leave her too. That's why she's so hesitant..."

"I'll tell her, Mom. I'll make her understand. I'm never going to leave her. She'll always have me by her side," Noah reassures firmly.

"You're not understanding, Noah... Olivia is going to be 15 years old, practically a teenager. Do you really think she'll understand you ?"

Noah stares into her eyes, his voice low and strained, "So, what you're saying is... to make her understand, I should leave Jane ?"

Amelia sighs, her expression conflicted but firm, and nods her head.

Noah stands frozen in place, his mind reeling. He feels numb, as if all emotion has drained from his body.

"I'm sorry, Noah... but Olivia clearly said she hates Jane. She said if you marry her, she'll harm her, and if you leave this house, she'll... she'll kill herself..."

Noah's breath hitches, his eyes widening in shock and disbelief as he stares at his mother.

"Mom... You're lying. She can't say something like that... I'll talk to her... She's—"

Amelia's head snaps toward him in an instant. "No!"

Noah narrows his eyes at her, his expression hardening.

Amelia gulps, trying to maintain her composure. "Darling, she's not okay right now. She's mentally scarred... she'll be fine if you leave Jane for her. That way, she'll realize how much importance she holds in your life."

"Mom... I won't give her any proof to show her importance in my life," Noah says firmly. "She means the world to me, Mom. But she's still a kid! How could she even say something like that about killing herself ?"

His voice wavers slightly as he continues, "You should've scolded her right there, Mom. You should've explained the right things to her instead of telling me—" He cuts himself off, his frustration evident.

Amelia glares at her son. "What do you think ? That I didn't scold her ? That I didn't explain things to her ? I AM HER MOTHER, FOR GOD'S SAKE, NOAH!"

She wipes her eyes, her voice cracking with emotion. "It hurts me too, seeing her suffer like this... Can you even imagine the pain of a mother who has to watch her daughter fear her brothers' partners? All because of one girl who took her eldest brother away from her..."

Noah looks frustrated. "Mom, why are you bringing William and Hazel into this ? They loved each other and got married. What's there to discuss about them ?"

Amelia glares at him again. "So ? After marriage, forget your family, huh? He could've told us that he loves that orphan. We weren't against their marriage, right ? But no, he left this house just because his wife wasn't comfortable here ? Can you believe he chose her over his own mother? Do you know how much it hurts me as a mother ?"

Noah sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose.

Amelia looks at him again, tears glistening in her eyes. "I already lost two of my sons... I don't want to lose my daughter too," she pleads, her voice trembling. "Noah, please, I'm begging you."

She joins her hands, tears streaming down her face. "Break up with Jane... otherwise, Olivia might harm her in college too. Please, it'll be good for everyone—p-please—n-noah—I-I reque—"

Her voice breaks, and she struggles to finish her sentence, her desperation evident.

"No, Mom... Please don't cry," Noah whispers as he pulls her into a comforting hug. Amelia immediately clings to him, her tears soaking his shoulder.

"I know, Noah, I know... you love her," Amelia murmurs against his chest, her voice trembling. "But trust me, I'll find a girl even more beautiful than her for you. Someone Olivia will love, and I know you'll fall for her too."

Noah stiffens slightly but says nothing, allowing her to continue.

"In fact," Amelia says, pulling back slightly to look into his eyes, "I've already found someone for you—Mili. The only heir of Colin Industries. Your dad had promised them that William would marry her, but to our bad luck, he ruined everything by marrying that orphan. But you..."

She cups his face in her cold hands, her eyes glinting with determination. "But I won't let you destroy your future, Noah," she says firmly. "You will marry Mili, and you'll become the CEO of Colin Industries. Trust me, your brother will die of jealousy when he sees your success. Maybe then, he will get his mind back and will leave that orphan and maybe will come back to us, again."

Noah's expression remains blank. He isn't paying attention to her words anymore. His mind is stuck on the chilling phrase she had uttered earlier: Break up with Jane; otherwise, Olivia will harm her in college too.

The thought replays in his head, over and over, leaving an ache in his chest.

"-And your sister will be okay too," Amelia adds softly, pulling him into another hug.

She smirks slightly, satisfaction flickering in her eyes as she felt his hesitant embrace.

💭 Flashback Ends 💭

So foolish of him to believe her !

How could he even think that his sister would do something like this ? But then again, Olivia did tell him that she hates Jane to the core.

He shuts his eyes and sighs in frustration.

But what if everything was just a facade ?

Even though she said she would hurt Jane, she never actually did. When Rocky was bullying Jane, Olivia was the one who fought for her.

The girl who is protecting Jane at every turn... how could she harm her?

If this is the case, then he knows he has fucked up badly.

Every time Olivia came near Jane, he lashed out at her. He spoke to her rudely every time he saw her with Jane.

Frustrated, he rubs his face with his hands.

It's all his fault. He knows it. Yet, he can't bring himself to face her, not after all the harsh words he's thrown her way.

He can't gather the courage. The weight of guilt is overwhelming, and he finds himself unable to face his sister—the one he once loved dearly. Each passing moment feels heavier as his guilt consumes him, making it harder to breathe, harder to think.

How could he expect her to forgive him when all he had done was hurt her ? Heck he couldn't even forgive himself. The weight of it was suffocating. Looking into Olivia's eyes felt impossible now—the pain he had caused her was like a vise around his heart. The pain she is in is just clenching his heart... He notices how every one of his brothers tries their best just to make her smile or talk with them... He can see the guilt, the tears in their eyes every time she rejects their offer... It breaks his heart every fucking time.

But at least they are trying... Unlike him... who can't even look into her eyes... Who doesn't even have the courage to ask for forgiveness!!

He sighs for the millionth time.

"Your brain will get more damage if you think so hard," a gentle and rough voice says, sitting beside him.

"I'm not thinking anything, Jack" Noah replies, though his tone betrays him. He doesn't even try to sound convincing.

Jack chuckles lightly. "Noah, I've known you since the moment you popped out of Mom's belly. You can't fool me."

The faintest smile tugs at Noah's lips, and he chuckles despite himself. "That's gross, Jack."

"Gross, but true," Jack quips. They sit into silence, the kind of quiet that's not awkward but loaded with unspoken words.

Jack stares out at the city alongside his younger brother, his thoughts mirroring Noah's more than he cares to admit. He knows very well what's going on in Noah's mind.

"You miss it too, don't you ?" Jack finally asks, his voice low but steady. "The way it used to be ?"

Noah doesn't respond immediately. His throat tightens at the thought of their childhood—of Olivia running into his arms, calling him her favorite, trusting him in a way that felt unshakable. Now, that trust is gone, replaced by walls she's built to protect herself from them.

He shrugs, "I don't know"

Both of them know he is lying, but neither of them utters a word.

"I miss when things were simple. When she didn't look at me like I'm a stranger. Or worse, like I'm... the enemy." Jack mumbles. His voice is barely above a whisper.

"The way she used to sneak into my room to steal my snacks every day, thinking I wouldn't notice. But, foolish her, never knew I hid my snacks in the same place, knowing very well she would come to steal..." Jack chuckles softly as he stares at the city below.

Noah's heart clenches. He remembers she used to do the same thing with him, except she'd take books from his bag and pretend she didn't. He would find them under her pillow, pages folded. Like Jack, he knew very well she was the one stealing his books, which is why he kept her favorite ones in his bag every day, waiting for her to take them.

"You know, after William left, one night I heard her sobbing in her room... When I peeked in, I found her crying so hard in her sleep..." Jack gulps as a lump forms in his throat. "Trust me, Noah, it was a heartbreaking moment for me... I-I promised her that day that I would always p-protect her... that I would always be with her. I f-failed, Noah. I failed."

His eyes glisten as he looks at the stars.

Noah looks at his brother and sighs.

"Aren't we all failures ?"

Jack smiles dryly. "Maybe."

They sit in silence again until Jack slowly mumbles, "Why don't you go and talk to her ?"

Noah stiffens slightly. Even he doesn't have an answer... Maybe because he's scared... Maybe because he's a coward, Maybe because he's afraid of her reaction.

"You know, Jack, the day I saw her with the knife, trying to kill herself... I realized just how broken she is and how badly we've failed her!"

Jack's breath hitches at that. He looks at his brother, his chest tightening.

Noah sighs deeply. "I can't, Jack... I can't talk to her. Imagine—the sister of six brothers trying to kill herself at the age of 16. The one who was once the source of all our love was begging for our attention, our love... and we failed to notice. Why do you think she would forgive us now ? No, Jack, I can't talk to her."

Jack's heart aches at Noah's words. He's right... Why would she forgive them? They had their reasons, their insecurities, but that's no excuse to hurt someone else.

"Maybe... she won't forgive you. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't try, Noah."

They hear a soft voice from behind and turn around, only to see both their sisters-in-laws standing there.

"Hazel is right, Noah," Sophia says as they walk closer. "She's angry. She's furious. And she has every right to be. But that doesn't mean you guys shouldn't at least try."

"But Noah is right, Soph... Why would she forgive us? We hurt—"

"Jack," Hazel interrupts gently, "trust me. She will forgive you guys. It'll take time, but she will. I know you all have your reasons, and deep down, you know she knows that too."

Noah looks conflicted, his brows furrowed. "I don't know..."

Sophia sighs. "You know, Noah, we girls tend to get angry very quickly... but we can't stay angry for long. And I know Olivia, Noah—she's a little sweetheart. She'll get over it soon."

"But doesn't that mean we're taking advantage of her forgiving nature?" Noah asks, his voice tinged with guilt.

Hazel immediately shakes her head. "No, Noah, you're not. You're asking for forgiveness because you regret what you've done—not because you're pitying her or assuming she'll forgive you just because it's in her nature." Her tone is soft but firm.

"And, Noah," Sophia adds gently, "it's unfair to her if you don't even try to ask for her forgiveness."

Jack sighs. "She's right, Noah... This is a hard time for her. She needs us now more than ever, and just because we're scared of her reaction, we can't leave her alone. I know my sister, Noah, and I know you do too. She's terrified of being alone again. And if we stop talking to her, or if we stop asking for forgiveness, she'll definitely think we're tired of her now and that we'll leave her."

Noah's head snaps toward him in shock.

"We both know how much her overthinking pulls her far away from reality, Noah, and we can't test that," Jack says firmly.

Noah gulps, a lump forming in his throat.

"Right, Noah... You have to try. You can't let her overthinking win," Hazel says softly, gently running her fingers through his hair.

Noah looks down, lost in thought, but eventually nods his head nonetheless.

Hazel sighs and exchanges a look with Sophia, signaling her something. Sophia immediately nods and nudges Jack slightly. Jack glances at her, raising an eyebrow in question. She signals toward Noah, and realization dawns on him. He nods in understanding.

"By the way, Noah... Today you did the right thing, making her call that bastard," Jack smirks.

Sophia nods her head vigorously. "Exactly! It's good for her to release all that pent-up anger, Noah."

"Pent-up anger, Sophia ? I could only imagine that bastard's face when Olivia was blasting him..." Jack bursts out laughing.

Hazel chuckles along. "He won't dare show his face to her ever again. He'll remember this for the rest of his life."

Sophia nods in agreement. "Obviously, he should be..."

Noah sighs and stands up from his spot. "I'm in my room," he says, and before anyone can respond, he walks away.

The smiles immediately fade from the trio's faces as they watch Noah leave.

Jack sighs. "Don't worry, he'll come around. Just give him some time."

Hazel and Sophia sigh, nodding quietly, and sit silently beside him.

"Why are you both not sleeping, by the way?" Jack asks, looking at them.

Hazel chuckles. "Who's sleeping, Jack, in this house now?"

Jack frowns and looks at her, raising an eyebrow. "What?"

"Yes, Jack... No one is sleeping. Even Olivia and Mason are awake," Sophia sighs, looking up at the sky. The silence settles between them, heavy with the weight of their thoughts and emotions. Jack, Hazel, and Sophia sit there under the vast sky, their gazes fixed on the city lights in the distance. The world around them feels so still, yet inside the house, everything is in motion.

Wounds healing, hearts aching, and time moving ever forward....

Jack sighs deeply. "Why are we all so close yet so distant? It's hurting now." Hazel and Sophia exchange a look before turning their eyes back to him. The silence that follows is filled with the heaviness.

"Maybe because... this is part of the healing process, Jack," Sophia says softly, ruffling his hair. "It'll take time, but trust me, everything will be fine."

When Jack doesn't respond, Hazel gently cups his face in her warm hands. "Jack... I know it's hard, but it's not impossible. Give it a try. Don't lose hope."

Jack's eyes meet hers, and he sees the sincerity, the deep understanding. A lump forms in his throat, and for a moment, he can't speak. 

"You have to do it," Hazel adds, her voice firm, though still gentle. "For Olivia, for Noah... for everyone in the house. You'll be strong, right ?"

Jack gulps, trying to swallow the knot in his throat, and nods, "Yeah. I'll try. I'll try for them."

They smile and they again sit in silence.

"Thank You" He mutters quietly. Their heads snap towards him. "For What ?" Sophia raises her eyebrow.

"For helping this family, for standing-" "Shut up, Jack" Sophia and Hazel interrupts him.

"This is our family, too." Hazel says, to which Sophia adds, "And we can do anything for this."

Jack chuckles softly, "You both are real life cuties, huh ?"

Hazel and Sophia blink at him in surprise, their faces momentarily caught off guard. But then, the corners of their lips twitch, and a soft laugh escapes them. They exchange a glance, a knowing look that says everything.

"Jack..." Sophia says, shaking her head with a smile. "You forget. We are your elder brother's wives."

Jack dramatically groans, falling back slightly with a hand over his heart, as if struck by an imaginary blow. "I'm too late, aren't I ?"

They chuckles and smack the back of his head. The three of them sit there, the playful teasing slipping into comfortable silence once more. Time seems to stretch, the sky darkening above them.

Hazel's eyes catch something in the sky.

Her breath catches in her throat as she leans forward, her hand pointing toward the night sky. "Look! A falling star!" she exclaims, excitement filling her voice.

Sophia and Jack both look up almost in an instant, following the direction of her finger. 

They close their eyes, each silently making a wish.

Let them be close again, please... I can't watch them suffer like this.

Sophia opens her eyes and gazes at the sky.

Please, make it happen. Give this family their happiness back, God... Please... Hazel murmurs, a few tears slipping down her cheeks as she looks up.

I never believed in these things before, but my family always has. Please, give them whatever they are wishing for... Please help us heal... Jack thinks, his eyes fixed on the sky.

To Be Continued...

So... How are you guys? It’s been such a long time, huh? Sorry, I’ve been writing this for two weeks now, and finally, it’s done. Sometimes, my mind just feels blocked, and I don’t know what to write...

Anyways, I have a situation in my life right now, guys, and I need your help 🙏🏻. I’m looking for an internship right now... Could you please pray to God for me ? Please 🥺.

That's my personal life problem right now, sweethearts 🤧... (Sorry for asking you all a personal favour)

Anyways, tell me do you like this story ?

What do you think about every character and their characteristics ?

Don't forget to Vote and Comment.

I will meet you guys soon till then stay safe, take care and Love yourself ❤️.

Byee Byee ... Luv ya 😘.

Published : 22 November 2024.

Total words : 10,216 words 😁 (can't believe, I can write this much😅)