No Strings Attached

Teo stretched out his arms and pulled Katherine into an embrace.

Ever since he'd come into contact with Katherine, it felt as if he'd been given a second wind. That feeling was like being a lovestruck teenager all over again, heart racing at the slightest touch. Just then, Katherine's phone started to ring.

Her eyes darted to the caller ID, and she swiftly answered the call.

"Hey, big bro, what's up?"

A deep, masculine voice came from the other end, "Kitty, I'm in Northbridge. How about we catch up tonight? It's been too long since I've seen you and Brodie. Dad sent some goodies for you guys." "Sure, come over to my place tonight. I'm at a friend's right now, but I'll head home in the afternoon."

"Great, see you tonight."

After hanging up, Katherine's eyes sparkled with excitement. "My big brother's coming to Northbridge! I'll be hosting him tonight. After we eat, I'll head back."

It was the first time Teo had heard her mention family. Curiously, he asked, "You have a brother? How come you never mentioned him when Brodie needed a liver donation?" sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ FɪndNøvel.ɴᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

"He's my dad's adopted son. He's taken care of him since he was little. I only came into the picture later. He had an accident years ago, which left him in a wheelchair. He's never married and never had kids. He's always treated Brodie like his own son."

Realizing they weren't blood relatives, Teo's protective instincts flared up.

voice. "Brodie's my boy; don't let

my brother's a good man. I'll introduce you two

chatted briefly with Clara

out of the car, a voice called

from a vehicle. She ran over

1Ә.

warmly, his eyes filled with an affection he couldn't hide. "Thought you'd be home by now so I came by

wheelchair, Katherine came over to Teo's

she introduced

he heard the name. He turned, and a familiar face caught

Connor.

His college mate.

Incredulity widened his eyes.

"Connor, from Northbridge

University's Electrical E.net

class rep?" Conte belongs

slightly. "It's been so long, Teo. Good

reached out, and they shook

looked on, astounded. "You guys knew each