All Chapters of Trapped with My Brother's Forbidden Best Friend: Chapter 21 - Chapter 30

The message from Dad created a new wave of nerves. “Some relatives are asking questions. We should have another family talk soon.” Those words stayed in my mind all day. By evening, Mom had already started planning a small get-together for the close family on the weekend. It wasn’t the full extended group, but it was still more people who would be watching us.Ryan sat at the dinner table, pushing food around his plate. “I told Dad I’d handle it. But honestly, I don’t know what to say to everyone yet.”Ethan, who had joined us for dinner again, looked at Ryan with respect. “You don’t have to say anything you’re not ready for. We can keep it simple. Ava and I are figuring things out. That’s the truth.”I reached for my glass of water, my hand slightly shaky. “I just don’t want people judging us. Or making it awkward for you, Ryan.”Ryan looked up and gave a small, tired smile. “It’s already awkward. But I’m dealing with it. You’re my sister. He’s my best friend. If this is what makes y

The day of the big family reunion finally arrived. Cars filled the driveway and lined the street. Laughter and voices echoed through the house as aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents arrived with dishes and gifts. Mom was in her element, welcoming everyone with warm hugs. Dad manned the grill in the backyard. The air smelled of barbecue and fresh flowers.I stood in the kitchen helping arrange plates, my stomach in knots. Ethan arrived early to help set up tables. He looked handsome in a casual button-down shirt, and every time our eyes met across the room, a small spark passed between us. Ryan stayed close, helping carry chairs but keeping a watchful eye on both of us.“You ready for this?” Ryan asked me quietly while we folded napkins.“Not really,” I admitted. “But we have to face it.”He nodded. “Just remember — I’ve got your back. Both of you.”His words gave me strength. Ethan joined us a moment later, and the three of us worked together like a team. It felt good, even with

The weeks leading up to the big family reunion passed in a gentle rhythm. Mornings started with family breakfasts where Ryan no longer sat between Ethan and me. Evenings often ended with the three of us talking on the back porch. The tension that once filled the house had slowly transformed into something warmer cautious acceptance mixed with quiet support.One sunny afternoon, Ethan and I went for a walk in the park near our house. Ryan knew about it and only asked us to be back before dark. The freedom felt new and wonderful.We walked hand in hand along the path, the leaves rustling softly above us. Ethan swung our joined hands gently. “It still feels a little unreal,” he said with a soft smile. “Being able to do this without looking over our shoulders every second.”I squeezed his hand. “I know. Ryan has been amazing. He’s really trying.”Ethan stopped under a shady tree and turned to face me. “He has. I’m grateful to him every day. But I’m even more grateful for you, Ava.” He bru

The two weeks before the joint family trip passed quickly. The house was full of energy as everyone prepared. Mom made lists of things to pack. Dad checked the weather forecast every morning. Ryan helped load the car with extra supplies. Ethan and I tried to focus on normal things, but the excitement and nerves were always there.One evening, Ethan and I managed to go for another quiet date. Ryan knew and only reminded us to be back by nine. We drove to a small hill outside town where we could see the lights of the city below. We spread a blanket on the grass and sat close together.“This feels nice,” I said, leaning my head on Ethan’s shoulder. The cool evening breeze brushed against us. “Just us, without anyone watching.”Ethan wrapped his arm around me. “I’ve been looking forward to moments like this. The trip is coming soon, and I want us to enjoy it together — not just survive the questions.”We talked for a long time under the stars. He told me more about his hopes for the futu

The announcement of the talent night created a wave of excitement across the resort. The next morning at breakfast, relatives were already buzzing with ideas. Some planned to sing old family songs, others wanted to do skits or share funny stories. For Ethan, Ryan, and me, it felt like another step into the spotlight.“We should do something together,” Ryan suggested surprisingly during breakfast. “The three of us. Show the family we’re okay.”Ethan and I exchanged a quick, hopeful glance. “That sounds good,” Ethan said. “What do you have in mind?”Ryan thought for a moment. “Maybe a short story about the snowstorm from our different perspectives. Nothing too personal, just the funny and scary parts. Keep it light.”I smiled, touched by his willingness. “I like that idea. It shows we’re all moving forward together.”The rest of the day became a whirlwind of preparation. The resort had set up a small stage near the lake with lights and seating. Relatives practiced in small groups all af