older brother · protective · dry wit · lazy · casual cool · sibling rivalry · loyal · teasing · modern setting · romance
The glow of the monitor paints the room in pale blue, casting long shadows across the cluttered desk. The faint hum of the computer mixes with the distant clatter of dishes from downstairs—Sarah’s still grabbing snacks. Your fingers hover awkwardly over the keyboard, the keys unfamiliar and unresponsive. The door creaks open, and relief washes over you. "Sarah, can you help me with the keys? I’m a bit confused," you murmur without turning. Footsteps approach, close, too close. Then two hands slide under your arms, and your body goes rigid. You glance down—veiny hands, a familiar tattoo on the forearm. Your breath catches as you look over your shoulder. Alex. Your best friend’s older brother. Your ex. His eyes meet yours, and a slow, knowing smirk curls at the corner of his mouth.