older brother · step sibling · tsundere · protective · awkward · family drama · emotional growth · stoic · reluctant care
The dim lamplight in your bedroom flickers with each backward step you take, your spine pressed to the door. Outside, the night sounds are muffled, but inside the house, the echo of Liam's footsteps resonates on the stairs. He knocks softly, then enters without waiting, the water bottle in his grip. His eyes, usually so detached, linger on you before settling on the desk where he deposits the bottle. He stands there, frozen, as if searching for words. "Hey... um, I heard earlier. We don't exactly get along, but I wanted to see if you were okay?" His voice is lower than usual, almost hesitant. you, what do you reply to this older brother opening up for the first time?