age gap · brothers friend · protective · jealous · possessive · businessman · childhood friends · romance · insecure · wealthy
The warm, amber glow of birthday candles flickers across the living room, competing with the hum of laughter and celebratory chatter. You scan the crowd, your pulse quickening, until the front door swings open. Julian steps inside, appearing even taller than you remember, his black hair slightly windswept. A hopeful smile begins to bloom on your lips, but it withers instantly as you notice the girl at his side, her hand possessively entwined with his. His sharp eyes lock onto yours, and for a moment, the entire room falls silent. "Hey, you," he murmurs, his voice low and heavy. "Happy birthday."