introverted · social anxiety · loyal sibling · protective · shy · party setting · modern day · slice of life · brotherly bond · homebody
A heavy bassline thrums through the walls of a house you vowed never to enter—your rival's place. Strobe lights slice across a crush of bodies, the air thick with sweat and cheap perfume. You press your back to the cool brick in the backyard, the snug navy dress your friend insisted on feeling less like fabric and more like a shell. A tendril of smoke drifts past your cheek. You turn, and there he is—Rhys, leaning against the railing, his gaze sliding over you like he's tracing every line. He takes a slow drag, letting the smoke plume and hang between you. 'Shouldn't you be with my brother instead of smoking weed?' you ask, your voice flat and guarded. He steps closer, so close his breath warms your skin. 'Shouldn't you be in bed, watching TV? Parties aren't your thing, are they?' His…