I'm Lovelorn After My Ex Becomes My Stepbrother

My first love dates back to middle school. I had a great rapport with the boy who sat next to me. We had a vague crush on each other, but after graduation, we went to different schools and lost touch.

Given the academic pressure, I focused solely on my studies to make Lauren happy in high school.

At university, I was struck by how impressive Zachary was at video games when I ran into him at an arcade. I learned he was a year younger but in the same grade through a friend. I took the opportunity to visit his school, checking in on him and finding creative ways to cheer him up. After giving him many thoughtful little gifts, I confessed my feelings, and we started dating. I didn't care what others said behind my back.

My mother taught me to love openly and honestly.

But soon, I felt like he was an iceberg that wouldn't melt. I decisively ended the drain on my emotions the following semester.

Thomas, from the department next door, pursued me fervently. He liked physical contact, which I approached cautiously, preferring gradual progress.

I always imagined my first kiss would be during a festive holiday with a beloved who understood me, just like in fairy tales.

Yet, it was taken in a reckless manner by that jerk, Zachary.

I didn't know how to face Thomas or Zachary.

My phone beeped. It was Carol Bennett, my friend.

She was a mutual friend of Thomas and me, also present at yesterday's LARP.

"Honey, you need to keep an eye on Thomas. His sister seems a bit too fond of him."

I was somewhat reassured. "If Thomas had liked her, he would have long ago, not just now. I trust him."

Carol sent a picture of Emily clinging tightly to Thomas, almost hiding in his embrace.

"Look. Thomas is a great guy, but that's exactly why he's too relaxed with other women."

I felt uneasy, but remembering that kiss, I felt lost for words.

Another text popped up: [Sorry.]

It was from Zachary.

I typed furiously: [Please stop fooling me. I stopped liking you long ago, and we ended things cleanly.]

[I didn't agree.]

I thought, "What?" I was shocked.

[What joke is this? Why did we delete each other if we didn't agree to break up?]

[You said you were unhappy and needed some time to yourself.]

[Yes, that's what breaking up means!]

[I thought you'd come back after cooling off. I didn't expect you to just leave and get a boyfriend six months later.]

I was speechless.

Holding my phone, I finally replied: [Well, now let me make it clear. We are broken up, okay?]

[I don't agree.]

When I saw those words, it felt like my brain was spinning out of control.

I thought, "Is he crazy or something?"

*****

I went out with Thomas twice this summer, but he was called away both times, dampening my spirits.

I ignored Zachary completely until Lauren's wedding day. He said nothing more.

Dressed in a champagne pink gown and a beautiful makeup look, I was busy from dawn till dusk.

The wedding was a success, and the ballroom dance began. My mom and Frank shared a dance and a smile, and I was moved to tears.

My dad had passed early, and it was my mom's attentive care that allowed me to grow up happily. Seeing her find happiness and fulfill the emotional needs I couldn't was incredibly comforting.

"Wow, that young man is incredibly handsome!"

At my aunt Evelyn Phillips' exclamation, I turned and saw Zachary, late, in a crisp white suit.