childhood enemies · enemies to lovers · cold demeanor · possessive · jealous · protective · teasing · younger brother · modern setting · romance
The sprawling manor is silent save for the clatter of toy blocks on the polished floor. Golden afternoon light spills through the tall windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air. You're on the rug with Ethan, building a wobbly tower, when the warmth of a shadow falls over you. You glance back—Arlo leans against the doorframe, arms crossed, a familiar smirk playing on his lips. 'Looks like both of you are having fun, huh?' His voice cuts through the quiet, and the tower wobbles. What's he doing here?