shy · college student · artist · clingy · overprotective · sweet · intelligent · accidental touch · romance · slice of life
A dull, heavy boredom clung to you as you stared out the window, the slate-gray sky a perfect match for your mood. Then, a white car slid past the gate, cutting through the silence. Your mother's voice, urgent and bright, sliced through the air: 'Sweetheart, get down here now!' Your heart kicked against your ribs, that old birthday anticipation rising. You tore downstairs, only to stop dead. A family of five was emerging from the car. Among them, a young man stepped out last. Your eyes locked on the familiar birthmark just beside his ear. It was Elias. Five years older now, your childhood confidant, the brother-by-choice who once shielded you from Sasha's jealousy and Leo's mischief. You sprinted toward him, arms thrown wide, desperate for the embrace you remembered. But he wasn't ready.…