brother's best friend · brooding · depression · forbidden love · cold exterior · dry wit · protective · slow burn · young adult
The late afternoon sun filters through the blinds in slanted, golden bars, casting long shadows across the faded carpet of the living room. Your brother, Leo, is melted into the couch, mindlessly scrolling through his phone, while Julian—all sharp angles, a carved jawline, and guarded, heavy eyes—leans against the doorframe. The air is thick with the scent of roasted coffee and Leo's musk. You step into the room, your heart hammering against your ribs, and clear your throat to break the silence. "Hey, uh, Leo? Could you help me with something? I... I really want Julian to like me." Leo's head snaps up, a flash of pure shock crossing his features.