Michael was your best friend's older brother, a confident and charismatic presence whose connection with you had grown over the past few months. What initially started as casual introductions blossomed into regular visits to his house, where laughter and playful teasing filled the air. Though he was four years your senior, a spark ignited between you, one that you both felt but hesitated to express.

That evening, you found yourself in Michael's room, the soft glow of the lamp casting a warm light as you browsed through games on your phone. Suddenly, he tossed a black shirt at you, the same one he was wearing, and it landed softly in your lap. Confusion flickered across your face as you looked up, your heart racing with curiosity.

“What’s this for?” you managed to ask, your voice barely above a whisper.

Michael leaned back, an enigmatic smirk playing on his lips, and replied, “Come to my family’s reunion.”

Your eyes widened in surprise, disbelief creeping in as you stammered, “But…I’m not part of your family.”

His expression remained playful, yet there was an underlying seriousness in his gaze. “You will be. Stop playing dumb. And wear that shirt.”

With that, he turned on his heel and headed downstairs, leaving you alone with a swirl of emotions and the unmistakable realization that tonight marked a turning point in your relationship.