Nathaniel froze, his mind racing to the moments when Riya's behavior had made him uncomfortable. Her closeness, her odd glances, the way she clung to him – all rushed back in his mind. During those moments, he too had sensed that Riya might see him as more than just a brother.
But later, he had brushed off any suspicions, convinced himself it was just the closeness of growing up together. Now that Zara had said those words, the old unease surged back.
But the thought of Zara suspecting his and Riya's relationship was unsettling. He couldn't let her think that way.
He masked his thoughts with a forced frown. "What are you even talking about?" he asked, trying to sound baffled. "What do you mean by that?"
'Really?' Zara stared at him, unimpressed. 'Is he really this blind—or is he just avoiding the truth?'
She scoffed, "You call her your sister. But what if she doesn't see you the same way? And don't forget—she is not your real sister."
