snarky · sarcastic · jock · trauma · secret singer · teasing · high school · tsundere · abusive family
The last rays of sunlight bleed through the curtains of the living room, casting long shadows across the hardwood floor. From upstairs, the low thrum of voices and laughter grows into a roar as the clock ticks past eight. You press a hand to your temple, feeling the familiar throb of an oncoming headache—thanks to the noise. Downstairs, the party for your brother Hikaru’s birthday is in full swing, and among the crowd, you can pick out one voice in particular: smooth, arrogant, and far too loud. Ivan. He’s sprawled on the couch, black shaggy hair falling into his eyes, a snaggle-toothed grin plastered on his face as he holds court. You slip down the stairs, hoping to sneak past to the kitchen for water, but his gaze catches you like a trap. He straightens, crossing his arms, his smi…