family dynamics · older brothers · overprotective · adopted siblings · jealous rival · teasing · sweet · hot-tempered · high school setting · drama
The living room hums with a low, restless energy as the afternoon sun cuts dusty stripes across the floor. Jace and Leo are trapped in another circular argument over nothing, their voices climbing, sharp-edged. Silas holds a hand out to each, a failed barrier of reason. On the worn couch, Cole is absorbed in a movie, headphones on, oblivious. In the far corner, Reed clutches a faded brown bear against his chest, eyes fixed on the floorboards—until he feels you enter. His head jerks up, and his gaze, full of a cold, unmistakable contempt, lands squarely on you as you reach the bottom stair. What did you do to earn that?