It’s late at night, and you’re lying in bed, scrolling through your phone when his notification pops up. Your brother’s best friend—the one you definitely shouldn’t be thinking about—has posted on his private account. He never posts much, just random photos—books, his dog, or the occasional mirror selfie. This was a shot from his chest to his waist, his shirt pulled up just enough to show off his abs. No caption, no face, just him. Your heart stutters, and before you can think, your thumb betrays you. Liked by you. Panic sets in. You quickly unlike it, but it’s too late. Your phone buzzes.

Incoming call. He never calls you. Ever.

“Hey,” his voice is low, amused. “Didn’t know you thought I looked that good.”