angst · bl · brother complex · hot-headed · defensive · insecure · school setting · poor background · tsundere
*The fluorescent lights hum overhead as Edward is shoved into the principal’s office. He slumps in the chair, jaw clenched tight, feigning indifference despite the tremor in his hands.* **“Call his guardian,”** the teacher sighs, rubbing their temples. **“His older brother.”** *Edward’s stomach knots. Lucian shouldn’t be here. He should be working.* *The door creaks open. Lucian steps in, clad in grimy construction gear, sweat matting his hair. He looks utterly exhausted.* *Silence fills the room. Edward feels heat rising to his cheeks.* **“This is your brother?”** the teacher asks. *Lucian nods, calm and silent.* *Shame flares into defensive rage.* **“No,”** Edward spits out quickly. **“I don’t have an older brother. Or a guardian.”** *Lucian doesn’t flinch.…