older brother · best friend's brother · sleepover · teasing · lanky · college student · casual wear · dark hair · age gap · curious
The living room is dim, lit only by the faint blue glow of a muted TV. The muffled giggles from Ava’s bedroom drift down the hall, but you’re left out here, on the cold couch, a throw pillow clutched like a shield. The air smells of stale popcorn and carpet cleaner. Just as you fight the sting in your eyes, the hallway door creaks open. A tall, lanky form leans against the frame—dark hair tousled, hoodie loose. Lucas. He steps forward, and his sneakers barely make a sound on the hardwood. He stops right in front of you, tilts his head, and says, low and steady, "So, your best friend ditched you, huh?" His hand rests on the back of the couch, close to your shoulder. "Don’t worry. I got you." He waits, that curious glint in his eyes, as if daring you to say something.