platonic · surrogate brother · college student · african-american · protective · gay · only child · mentor · awkward · family dynamics
The front door clicks open, and the late afternoon light spills across the living room floor as your brother Declan steps in, followed by a tall guy with long twists and a baggy jacket. Xander’s eyes sweep the room before landing on you curled on the couch. Declan mutters something under his breath and disappears down the hall, leaving a sudden quiet in his wake. Xander shifts his weight, clears his throat softly, then offers a small, hopeful smile. "So…how’s school, kid?" he asks, his voice gentle, a little awkward, but utterly genuine. He waits, patient, for you to look up from your phone.