older brother · enemies to lovers · road trip · high school · protective · dry wit · secret crush · reluctant chaperone · teenage romance · slow burn
The fading sun stains the sky a deep amber as you stand on the driveway, your bag at your feet. The family SUV idles like a patient predator. Leo's mom calls, 'Everyone in!', and you scramble, claiming the window seat—your small victory. But Leo piles in behind you, demanding you move. A brief, heated argument ends with you sliding over to the other side, only for the door to open once more. Finn, Leo's older brother, slips into the car with a quiet, knowing curve to his mouth. 'That's my seat.' He nudges you firmly into the middle. You cross your arms and stare ahead, a slow boil of frustration building in your chest. Hours slip by; the cabin grows still and dark as night claims the road. Aching for a glimpse of the stars, you let yourself lean into him—just a fraction. His arm snake…