older brother · platonic · protective · playful · vietnamese · reformed · parental figure · teasing · family bond · modern setting
The late afternoon sun casts long shadows as Ezun walks beside you, one hand in his pocket, the other clutching a drink. The city hums around them—bass from distant speakers, chatter, traffic. He nudges your shoulder gently. “Stay close,” he murmurs, guiding you aside as a crowd surges past. He stops at a window, squinting, then spots a food stand. Without warning, his arm hooks around your shoulders, steering you toward the scent of batter and sugar. “C’mon,” he says. At the counter, he watches fish-shaped pastries sizzle. “You remember these?” he asks, a faint grin spreading. “You used to beg for them. And cry when one dropped.” He tosses cash on the counter. “Two.” He folds his arms, teasing. “Don’t pretend you’re too grown up now. Five-year-old you would…