Stolen Glances

Ethan

​​Ethan couldn't deny the striking beauty of Olivia. Her dark, flowing hair framed her face with soft waves, and her eyes held a depth that intrigued him. Her features were delicate yet alluring, and he noticed how her lips curved into a gentle smile.

As he observed Olivia, he could feel a physical attraction, an undeniable pull toward her. Her presence was captivating, and her vulnerability, evident in the subtle quiver in her voice, made her all the more intriguing. However, Ethan knew better than to act on his impulses. He was well aware of Olivia's recent divorce and the emotional turmoil she must be going through. He had his own responsibilities and commitments, and becoming entangled in someone else's emotional journey was not a path he wanted to tread. But what surprised him even more was the realization that the woman who had interrupted his earlier encounter today was none other than his new stepsister. The irony of the situation was not lost on him, but he couldn't afford to let his desires cloud his judgment. For now, he decided to keep his distance and maintain a facade of civility while wondering how their paths had crossed in such an unexpected way.

As Ethan settled into the family gathering, Logan couldn't contain his excitement about having his brother back home.

"Ethan, it's so good to have you back! No more acting CEO for me, and I can finally get some free time," Logan exclaimed, his enthusiasm evident.

Ethan offered a genuine smile to his brother, appreciating the warmth of his welcome, but he noticed the tension in the room, particularly between Olivia and himself. Their tension was palpable, and Ethan wondered about the coincidental nature of their meeting today. He decided to steer the conversation away from uncomfortable territory.

"Well, it's good to be home," he said, attempting to keep the atmosphere light.

Logan, eager to hear about Ethan's trip, asked, "So, Ethan, how was your trip overseas? Any interesting developments?"

Ethan leaned back in his chair, his expression becoming more animated.

"It was quite a fruitful trip. I managed to secure a significant deal with the International Health Society. They've chosen us as their primary suppliers for the next five years. This partnership could bring in millions, if not billions, to the company."

Mary's eyes widened with delight, and Logan couldn't help but be impressed. "That's amazing, Ethan! You really are the best at this business stuff," Mary exclaimed. 

Still processing the news about her stepbrother, Olivia kept her gaze averted, unable to shake off the strange mix of emotions. As the conversation continued, she silently stole glances at Ethan. There was something about him that she found irresistibly attractive. Maybe it was the way he spoke with such confidence and authority. Or perhaps it was how his dark hair fell across his forehead in a messy yet fashionable manner.

As Ethan continued to speak, Olivia felt a strange pull towards him. She couldn't stop the images that flooded her mind. He was in a suit, commanding the boardroom with his sharp wit and intellect. Her, watching him from afar, admiring his every move.

Logan nudged her, bringing her back to reality. "Hey, are you okay? You seem kind of out of it."

Olivia shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit distracted, I guess." She forced a smile and turned her attention back to Ethan.

He was still talking, his voice smooth and confident. Olivia felt a flutter in her stomach as she listened to him. She had never been so immediately attracted to someone before, and it was both exhilarating and terrifying. She stole a glance at him and caught him looking at her. Their eyes met, and she saw a flicker of something in his gaze. Was it desire? Or was it just her imagination? Damn, what was wrong with her? She really needed to pull it together. She would chalk it up to her abstinence after her recent divorce.

"Well, Ethan," Logan began, "It's going to be great having you around, especially with the holidays coming up."

Mary excitedly said, "I'm so glad to have Olivia home and both of you boys around for the holidays. Let's have a big lunch together on Christmas day!"

Logan, who was full of life, was excited about the idea. "That sounds fantastic, Mary! We can all catch up and enjoy some quality family time."

Ethan, on the other hand, hesitated for a moment. He wasn't particularly fond of holidays, and the prospect of a big family gathering seemed overwhelming. But not wanting to dampen the mood, he managed a faint smile and said,

"Sure, Mary, Christmas lunch sounds good."

However, what truly influenced his decision wasn't the holiday spirit or the family gathering; the unexpected encounter with Olivia piqued his curiosity. He had noticed how she reacted to him, how she kept sneaking peeks at him, and how she flushed when he caught her. It was unusual, to say the least, and it left him intrigued. Perhaps there was something more to this new stepsister of his than met the eye.