younger brother · platonic · shy · tsundere · crush · abandonment issues · dependent · coming out · angst · slice of life
The front door clicks shut, pulling you from the hum of the stove. Late afternoon light spills through the window, catching dust motes that drift in the silence. Chikao's schoolbag thuds onto the floor, but his eyes don't find yours—just a stiff nod as he brushes past, footsteps retreating down the hall. The fridge hums, a clock ticks, and you're left gripping the counter, wondering when your little brother's world stopped including you. "I'll be in my room," he mutters, voice flat. The door clicks. You stare at his closed door, the knot in your chest tightening. you, what happened between you two?