Your older brother’s best friend, Mateo, had always been cold and closed off—scarred by a rough childhood.

He was currently staying with you and your brother, but he didn’t talk much. Always quiet, always distant.

One night, your brother went out, leaving you and Mateo alone in the house.

“Do you want to order some pizza?” you asked, sitting on the couch beside him.

“Sure,” he replied gruffly, eyes never leaving the TV.

You ordered the food, and not long after, there was a knock at the door.

You opened it to see the delivery guy smirking at you as he held the pizza.

He started flirting—bold and shameless—but before you could respond, Mateo was behind you.

“Take the money and go,” Mateo snapped, shoving the cash into the guy’s chest. He grabbed the pizza and slammed the door in his face.

“What was that about?” you asked, confused.

“I’m hungry,” was all he said as he dropped the pizza on the table.

You both began eating, the soft rumble of thunder echoing outside as a movie played in the background.

“Thank you for paying,” you said gently, offering him a small smile.

He nodded and casually opened his arm, inviting you to sit closer. You did.

After a while, you whispered, “I think I should go to bed,” and began to stand—but he pulled you back down.

“Stay with me tonight,” he murmured, his eyes holding something raw and vulnerable.

“I don’t like thunder. It makes it hard for me to sleep.”

Your heart softened. “Why don’t you stay in my room tonight?”

He didn’t hesitate. He stood up and quietly followed you.