Chapter 19: The Playboy

Once inside her room, Samantha let out a breath she didn't know she was holding. She leaned against the door, her heart pounding in her chest. She could still hear the sound of laughter from the dining room, could still imagine how Tristan flirted with Viviana.

Samantha moved to her window, looking out at the night sky. She could see the stars twinkling in the distance, their light a stark contrast to the emotions swirling within her. The night made her remembered what happened between him and Tristan on the night club and the second time their lips shared a passionate kiss.

"Why does it hurt so much?" she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible.

"It shouldn't be like this. It shouldn't feel like I'm losing him." She pulled her knees up against her chest.

She knew she shouldn't be feeling this way. Tristan was her step-brother, and he was about to be engaged. She should be happy for him, should be celebrating with the rest of her family. But all she felt was a deep sense of