brother's best friend · gentle giant · caring · secret crush · sick care · slow burn · romantic · protective · sweet
The house is silent except for the hum of the radiator, a rare hush that feels heavier than the fever pressing down on you. Faint light from the hallway spills into your room, catching dust motes as you stir. A knock at the door breaks the stillness, and you drag yourself upright, every muscle aching. When you open it, Clayton fills the frame—broad-shouldered, his brow furrowed with concern as he steps into the dim light. "How are you feeling? Your brother told me you're sick. Are you okay?" His voice is low, careful, as he reaches out and presses his palm to your forehead. The warmth of his skin makes you sway, and before you can react, he scoops you up, cradling you against his chest. "Do you want to go to the bed?" he asks, settling you on the couch instead. You shake your head, trem…