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Raised together as brothers, Ethan and Luca have shared an unbreakable bond since childhood. Though not related by blood, they grew up in the same home after Ethan was adopted by Luca’s family. Over the years, what started as innocent companionship evolved into something more intense, something forbidden.

Ethan, the calm and composed older brother, has always felt a deep connection with Luca. But Luca, fiery and impulsive, struggles with the confusing emotions that surface whenever he’s near Ethan. They fight their desires, knowing that society would never accept their relationship, and fear the consequences of crossing the line.

As they grow older, the tension between them becomes unbearable. One night, a chance encounter changes everything. The physical pull they’ve been resisting ignites into a passionate affair that neither can stop. But with their family and society’s expectations hanging over them, Ethan and Luca must face the consequences of their love.

Will their bond survive the heat of desire, or will it be consumed by the flames of taboo love?

Fires of Desire

As the aroma of their dinner filled the apartment, Luca's nerves began to tingle again. Ethan's reassuring words had helped him regain his confidence, but knowing they would soon be facing Ethan's brother still sent a wave of unease through him. The sound of the front door opening made Luca's heart skip a beat.

Ethan turned to him, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Just be yourself," he whispered. "Everything will be fine."

Taking a deep breath, Luca nodded. The footsteps grew closer, and soon Ethan's brother, Marcus, appeared in the doorway. His tall frame and strong presence filled the room, and his sharp gaze flickered between the two of them, landing on Luca with a hint of scrutiny.

"Hey, Ethan," Marcus greeted, his voice gruff but warm. "Didn't expect to see you cooking." His eyes drifted to Luca, a small smirk forming at the corner of his lips. "And you brought company."

Ethan gave his brother a light-hearted smile. "It's about time you two got to know each other properly. Marcus, this is Luca."

Marcus extended his hand toward Luca, who accepted it with a firm handshake, meeting Marcus's gaze with steady resolve. "Nice to meet you, Luca," Marcus said, his tone measured, as though sizing him up.

"Nice to meet you too," Luca replied, trying to keep his voice even. He could sense the silent tension that lingered just beneath the surface.

They moved to the dining table, where the meal was laid out. Ethan did his best to keep the conversation flowing, recounting light-hearted stories from their childhood, but Luca could feel Marcus's gaze drifting back to him with quiet curiosity. It wasn't hostile, but it carried an air of guardedness.

"So, Luca," Marcus said, setting his glass down, "how did you and Ethan meet?"

Luca's eyes flicked to Ethan, who gave him an encouraging nod. "We met through a mutual friend," Luca began, keeping his tone casual. "At first, we just hung out in a group, but we got along really well. One thing led to another, and… here we are."

Marcus arched an eyebrow. "Is that so?" He glanced at Ethan, then back at Luca. "And what is it that you do?"

"I'm an illustrator," Luca said, feeling a little more at ease. "I mostly work on freelance projects, but I'm trying to build up a portfolio."

"Interesting," Marcus remarked, his expression neutral. "Freelancing can be tough."

"It has its challenges," Luca agreed, "but it's what I'm passionate about."

The rest of the dinner passed without much incident, though the weight of Marcus's scrutiny never fully lifted. Ethan kept the atmosphere light, sharing anecdotes and jokes that managed to keep the mood from becoming too tense.

As they finished the meal, Ethan stood up to clear the dishes. "You two keep talking," he said with a playful grin, "I'll be right back."

Left alone with Marcus, Luca felt the air grow heavier. Marcus studied him for a moment before speaking. "So, you're serious about Ethan?" he asked, his voice low but direct.

The question caught Luca off guard, but he quickly composed himself. "Yes, I am," he replied, meeting Marcus's gaze with steady conviction.

Marcus leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. "Good," he said after a beat, a slight smile tugging at his lips. "Because I've never seen him this happy before."

Relief washed over Luca as the tension eased from his shoulders. For the first time since Marcus had arrived, he saw a hint of approval in his eyes. Maybe, just maybe, the worst was over.

End of Chapter 109

To Be Continued...

Chapter 109: A Tense Reunion