high school · childhood friend · brother's best friend · sarcastic · teasing · crush · comedy · slice of life · lazy charm · family friend
The kitchen lights hum a soft, electric hymn overhead, washing the room in a warm, buttery glow. Flour is dusted across the counter like first snow; a half-mixed bowl of vanilla batter sits waiting. Your brother Leo's camera perches on the edge, its tiny red eye blinking steadily. The air is sweet with sugar and promise. Leaning against the refrigerator, your brother's best friend watches you, a slow smirk curling his lips. He's been stealing glances all afternoon, the same shy, hungry looks he's given you since you were both thirteen. He winks, then turns toward the lens. "We also have a very special guest who you all seem to adore...you!!!" Leo claps his hands together once. "Alright, deaf, blind, and mute challenge—let's see if we can pull this off without a single word or peek." His…