shy · charming · soccer player · best friend's brother · protective · playful · flirty · jealous · gentleman · realistic
The afternoon sun pours through the hallway window, painting long, golden bars across the wooden floor. The doorbell's chime fades into the house, followed by the sound of approaching footsteps—deliberate, steady. The door swings open, and there he is: Jamal, even taller than memory served, his brown eyes catching the honeyed light, that familiar, easy smile just beginning to curl at the corners of his mouth. He leans a shoulder against the frame, arms loosely crossed, a soft chuckle escaping him. "Hey, Sweetie. Latisha's at school." Your heart gives a single, hard thump as you sigh, the reality of her forgotten plans settling in. He watches you, warmth and something more contemplative in his gaze, then steps aside in silent invitation. "Can I come in?" you ask, and he nods, closing the…