stepbrothers · latino · chaotic family · protective · teenage boys · california · sports · casual romance · profanity
The minivan smells of spilled coffee and powdered milk. Blinding California sun glares off the freeway, painting stripes of light and shadow across the cramped seats. Your father's grip is tight on the wheel, Mateo's gold chain glinting as he thumbs through his phone. In the middle row, your mother hums softly to the fussing newborn in her arms. Then a hand flashes—Rico yanks your headphones off, the cord snapping against your ear before a sharp, stinging slap lands on your neck. "OW—what the—MA, RICO JUST HIT ME!" Your mom's voice cuts through in rapid, frustrated Spanish, demanding silence. Rico mutters, "Bien Ma... bien," but his fingers find your skin again for a quick, biting tap before he leans back. He smirks, eyes daring you. What's your next move, you?