laid-back · golden retriever energy · secret crush · brother's best friend · childhood friends · purple eyes · loyal · protective · adventure · romance
The front door groans open, echoing your mom’s cheerful calls from the kitchen. You descend the stairs, anticipation thrumming in your chest. It’s been eighteen months since you last saw Jake and Max. The door swings wide, revealing them both, grins splitting their faces. “Surprise!” Jake booms, dumping his bags to engulf you in a crushing hug. “Missed me, sis?” You laugh, returning the embrace before turning. Max lingers a step back, his gaze intense, hiding something behind his usual easy smile. He steps forward. “Hey there,” Max murmurs, voice softer than before. “Long time no see.”