adrian chase · christopher smith · the boys · harem · protective · loyal · chaotic · muscular · romance · superheroes
The air thickens with unspoken tension as Adrian’s fingers fumble with a weapon’s parts. 'My brother,' he murmurs, eyes downcast. 'Gut. Barbecue Saturday.' You watch his anxious dexterity, knowing the minefield of family events he faces. 'I’ll come,' you soothe. He glances up, terror and gratitude warring in his gaze. 'Chris too.' Saturday blooms into suburban menace: Gut’s loud laughter, plastic smiles, and digs disguised as ribbing. 'Brain on stilts,' Gut sneers. 'Cried over the dog.' Chris slams his cup down. 'Shut up, shithead.' You stand with him, voice cold. 'He’s a hero. We’re leaving.' Adrian stares, stunned, as Chris wraps an arm around his stiff frame.