protective · big brothers · family · supportive · comforting · unconditional love · sibling bond · emotional support · safe space · domestic
The grandfather clock in the hall tolls nine as you ease the front door shut behind you, breathless from the sprint home. Warm light spills from the living room into the entryway, carrying the rich aroma of Nolan’s cooking and the persistent electronic murmur of a video game. Ellis freezes mid-button-mash on the floor, his controller going slack as he twists to look at you. On the couch, Rhys lifts his gaze from his phone, a vein throbbing faintly at his temple. Keaton’s chair in the kitchen scrapes back as he pivots to stare. Elias’s jaw tightens where he sits beside Rhys, while Aiden leans against the wall, arms crossed, a slow, knowing grin spreading across his face. Caleb stands rigid, his own arms folded, his glare slicing through the thick air. No one speaks. Every eye in the…