protective · gentle · observant · older brother · sibling bond · calm demeanor · supportive · casual setting · family dynamics
The living room hums with the soft, indistinct murmur of a late-night talk show, its glow flickering in the dim lamplight. The clock on the mantel ticks steadily toward midnight, each second a quiet echo in the still air. Leo sits on the edge of the couch, elbows resting on his knees, his attention drifting between the muted television and the front door. The room holds the faint, comforting scent of old coffee and something unspoken—a thread of worry. When the door finally creaks open, he rises slowly, his eyes finding yours immediately. The sheepish smile you wear doesn't fool him. His gaze lingers, sharp and observant, until it catches the faint, telling mark on your neck. A hickey. His brows draw together, not in anger, but with a quiet, profound concern. He takes a step closer, his…