All Chapters of A Deal With My Hockey Captain Stepbrother : Chapter 21 - Chapter 30

Chapter ELIANA I turn off the tap, reach for a towel and dry my hands. It is silent for a while inside the kitchen, the atmosphere thick with tension and something more that I couldn't quite wrap my head around, Jax’s words still ringing in my head. Slowly, I turn around to look at him and for a moment, I think that he’s joking but by the look on his face, he looks serious. He stares back at me, his blue eyes sharp just like he could see through my soul and realise how badly I have been wanting to hear those words from him. “I thought…you don't want trouble?” I ask with a raised eyebrow, referring to his statement in the morning during breakfast, praying cool so that he doesn't realise my curiosity. His jaw clenches upon hearing my words and his eyes darken. “Of course I wouldn't if there was another way. I thought…you didn't want trouble either.” He counters back. The corner of his lips tips up into a smirk, my hand itching to slap it away.I know damn well that he wa

ELIANA The blaring alarm wakes me up and a groan escapes my mouth. I reach for the clock on the side bed table and shut it down. I stay on the bed for a while, my mind wandering around for a second. The memories of the previous night flashes in my mind and my lips curl into a smile. I recall the late night conversation that I had with Jackson in the kitchen, the deal and the conversation with uncle James thereafter. I was able to sleep after talking to uncle James. Heaving a deep sigh, I shove off the blankets, grab a clean towel and head over to the bathroom to freshen up. And when I’m done in the bathroom, I walk back to my room, change into uniforms, grab my backpack and head over to the kitchen. A strong aroma of coffee from the kitchen hits my nostrils, awakening my sick addition to caffeine. There's faint voices inside the kitchen and laughter. Releasing a breath, I walk inside the kitchen.

JACKSON “Tha- thank you.” She says hesitantly as she holds onto the jacket, the corner of her lips curving into a soft smile.By the look on her face, I can tell that she didn't expect me to cover her from the cold. I don't do this more often, however, I couldn't resist when I saw her at the balcony on my way to the kitchen to fetch myself a glass of water. I thought it was only appropriate to cover her because she cared when I needed someone to.She helped me take care of my busted lip even though I assured her I would do it on my own. “I…didn't expect you to be awake at this time.” Her voice pulls me back to the present and I turn to look at her for a brief moment.“Well, here I am. We all have things that keep us up at night.” I shrug nonchalantly and pretend that I don't care that much.It's quiet for a while at the balcony for a fleeting second. And for the first time in a long time, I don't appreciate the silence that much like I always do. I want her to talk. I want her to sa

ELIANA HOURS LATER/ HARRISON MANSION The day was a blur, keeping myself busy that I lost track of time. I felt Ethan's eyes lingering on me for a minute way too long during the classes and across the field during breaks. However, I ignored and pretended not to feel it.His friend Jasper, approached me and tried to talk to me. Informing me how sorry Ethan is and how he regrets everything. Jasper used to be my friend too and we used to get along well. I understand where he's coming from because I know that he's worried about Ethan since they're close and teammates.However, I told him that Ethan and I are over. There’ll never be us…I heavy a deep sigh, shoving the thoughts at the very back of my mind since Ethan is less of my worries at the moment because I have something else to worry about.Or rather…someone.From the window of my room, I quietly watch as Jackson skates on the driveway from one end to another using the cones as he makes sharp turns, trying to perfect his left side.

ELIANA It's noisy and crowded as we walk down the hallway, most of the students happy that the school day is finally over. Well, I’m one of them because today felt longer and exhausting from the endless lectures and quizzes. I heave a deep sigh when I give it a thought.. “I swear Mr. Thomas didn’t have good intentions today.” I complain,adjusting the backpack that's hanging on my left shoulder and the books in my hands Mr. Thomas is our math teacher and he's usually one of the best because he's understanding and friendly. However, today he gave us a lot of exercises to work on compared to other days and he was a little grumpy. “I swear,” Zoe supports me, blowing a breath. “I heard students saying that maybe he had a fight with his wife or something.” I chuckle when I hear her words, shaking my head in disbelief. “ I hope you don’t believe them. You know students will make up stories.” I respond, the corner of my lips curving into a smile because I find the words so funny. Howe