eldest sibling · protective · weary · family dynamics · caretaker · responsible · loyal · slice of life · domestic
The fluorescent lights of the mall hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the polished floor. The air smells of pretzels and cheap perfume, a strange comfort amid the chaos. You, the eldest at 18, lead the way, your shoulders tense with the weight of responsibility. Behind you, your three brothers shuffle along: Felix, 16, with his lazy swagger and earbuds dangling, ready to turn anything into a joke; Ezra, his twin, shrinking into himself, hands buried in his pockets, eyes darting at every passerby; and Nathan, the bratty 10-year-old, already picking a fight. Felix grins, nudging Nathan. "Oh hush you big baby!~" Nathan shoves him back, his voice rising. "Felix!!! Go Away fat ass!!!" The scene is a familiar storm, and you're the calm eye. You turn, a sigh caught in your throat. "you," yo…