Chapter 5

Ivy’s POV I slipped into a crop top and shorts, then applied a touch of lip gloss. By the time I headed downstairs, everyone was already gathered in the dining room for breakfast. My eyes immediately found Aaron. He had just showered too. His damp hair and fresh look made my heart race. Ugh, why does he have to be so attractive? "Good morning," I greeted cheerfully. Aaron, who had just taken a sip of water, choked and nearly spat it out. "Aaron, are you okay?" My mom asked, patting his back. Aaron cleared his throat, nodding. "Y-Yeah, sis, I'm fine." I kissed Dad on the cheek, and he smiled. Mom gave me a curious look. "You’re up early today. What’s the occasion?" I glanced at Aaron out of the corner of my eye. Mom, please don’t say anything that will make it obvious! "Mom, I always wake up early. I was working out in my room," I lied smoothly. Jack, my annoying brother, smirked. "Really, sis?" I shot him a glare. "Shut up." Turning to Dad, I said, "Dad, I want Uncle–" "What?" Aaron became agitated. I rolled my eyes. "I mean, I want him to drive me to college today." Dad nodded. "Alright, honey." Aaron abruptly protested, "No, brother!" Dad frowned. "Do you have a problem, Aaron?" Aaron hesitated, avoiding my gaze. "It's my first day at the company. How can I be late?" Aaron said, trying to make an excuse. Dad, however, wasn’t convinced. "It’s our own business, Aaron. You can go in anytime you want." Aaron turned to look at me, clearly frustrated. "Uncle, I'm waiting in the car. Please hurry up," I said before stepping outside. Aaron let out a deep breath, his gaze following me. Five minutes later, I saw Aaron approaching. He opened the door and frowned. "Ivy, sit in the back seat." "No," I said stubbornly. "I want to sit next to you." Aaron sighed. "Ivy…" "You're wasting my time, Uncle. Just get in already," I insisted, grabbing his hand. With another sigh, he gave in and sat beside me. I kept my eyes on him the entire ride, watching his every movement. Why does looking at him make me forget everything else? Aaron glanced in the rearview mirror, catching me staring. "Ivy," he stammered. "Yes?" I answered quickly, leaning toward him. He shifted uncomfortably, eyes darting toward me. "What is this?" "What?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. "If you keep distracting me while I’m driving, we’re both going to crash," he warned. "I don’t mind if I die with you." Aaron’s grip on the steering wheel tightened. "Ivy, are you serious?" "Yes," I replied with a playful grin. I could see the irritation on his face, but his scolding didn’t faze me. I knew exactly how to get under his skin. Aaron let out a defeated sigh. I simply can’t win against her. "Okay, now tell me—what’s the deal with your outfit?" he asked. "What about it, Uncle?" I feigned innocence. "Do you always dress like this for college?" I blinked in surprise. Wow! He actually noticed my clothes! "Why, Uncle?" I teased, tilting my head. "Isn’t it a little too revealing?" He hesitated before adding, "You've got legs…" But he stopped mid-sentence. I raised an eyebrow. "What about my legs, Uncle?" Aaron cleared his throat. "Ahem. You’re still young. I hope you understand what I mean." "No, I don’t," I said, crossing my arms. "Explain it clearly." Aaron struggled to find the right words. "All I know is that I have sexy legs." Aaron frowned. "That doesn’t mean you should be showing them off to everyone." His words made me giddy inside. He’s annoyed because he cares. He doesn’t want others looking at me like this. "Why do you care so much, Uncle?" I teased. "You don’t like my dress?" Aaron opened his mouth to speak but hesitated. "Don’t you want me to dress like this?" I pushed further. "Or… is it because you don’t want other boys looking at me?" Aaron froze, his lips parting slightly in shock. "I-I didn’t mean it like that," he stammered. I leaned closer, lips curling into a smile. "Oh, really?" "You are," I insisted. "No, I’m not," Aaron stated firmly. "Then why did you stutter?" I teased, smirking. He restarted the car, avoiding my gaze. I couldn't help but grin. Seeing him flustered like this was a victory. The rest of the drive was quiet. Aaron seemed tense, keeping his focus strictly on the road. He didn't glance at me or say a word. My excitement faded. Did I push him too far? After what felt like forever, we arrived at my college. "Uncle, are you mad at me?" I asked softly, peering at him. He turned his face away. "I’m not mad. You should go now, or you’ll be late." I pressed my lips together, then without saying anything, I got out of the car. Aaron’s POV. When I prepared to drive away, my phone suddenly rang. I glanced at the screen—Roxina. Not now… I sighed before answering. "Yes?" I replied flatly. "I heard you're back," she said. "Yeah, I'm here," I responded quickly, not in the mood for small talk. "Why didn't you tell me, Aaron?" she demanded. I rolled my eyes. Here we go again. "I’m not your pet, Roxina. I don’t have to inform you about everything," I said, irritation creeping into my voice. "It’s not about that!" she snapped. "I’m your girlfriend! You should at least tell me when you’re back!" Before I could respond, someone tapped on my car window. I turned to the side and froze. "You? What do you want?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. I rolled down the window, and before I could react— Ivy leaned in and kissed me on the lips. My eyes widened in pure shock. She pulled away just as fast, a mischievous smirk on her lips. "That’s your punishment for teasing me," she whispered, her voice playful yet challenging. Then, she winked at me and strutted off toward her college, her confidence unwavering. My gaze unconsciously followed her, captivated by her boldness. "Aaron, who is she?!" Roxina’s furious voice snapped me back to reality. I quickly hung up and gripped the steering wheel, my mind racing. What the hell just happened?