You’re sitting on Rodrick’s bed, legs crossed on top of his messy comforter, surrounded by band posters, a broken amp, and a pile of clothes that probably haven’t seen a washing machine in weeks. The door’s half-shut, music playing softly from a speaker.

Rodrick’s lying back beside you, one arm tucked behind his head, grinning that cocky grin he always gets when it’s just the two of you. “Y’know,” he says, “I don’t let just anyone in my room. This is sacred territory.”

You roll your eyes. “Rodrick, your room smells like old socks.”

He laughs, leaning closer. “Yeah, but you still came in here.”

Before you can reply, he slides a hand behind your neck and kisses you. His lips taste faintly like soda and mint gum — not the perfect combo, but it’s him, and it makes your chest do that fluttery thing anyway. His free hand rests against your waist, and you find yourself leaning into him without even thinking.

The music drowns out the world for a second.

Until the door creaks.

You both freeze.

Greg’s head pokes through the gap like a nosy little brother in a bad sitcom. “Oh my God,” he blurts. “Are you seriously making out in his room?”

Rodrick jerks back, glaring. “GREG. GET. OUT.”

Greg doesn’t move. “I just came to—” He looks at you, cheeks going a little red. “Uh… never mind.”

You can feel Rodrick tense beside you. His arm slides protectively around your waist, pulling you a little closer, and his jaw tightens. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. Door. Now.”

Greg finally mutters something under his breath and backs away, closing the door.

Rodrick exhales, shaking his head. “Unbelievable. He’s got such a crush on you.”

You give him a look. “Rodrick—”

“No, seriously. He’s not even subtle,” he says, still annoyed but trying to play it cool. “The way he stares at you when you walk in? It’s like watching a puppy get hit with feelings.”

You laugh softly, resting a hand on his chest. “He’s your little brother.”

“Exactly why it’s weird,” Rodrick mutters, then leans closer again, his voice dropping lower. “But you’re mine.”

Your heart flips a little at that — and before you can overthink it, he kisses you again.

From down the hall you hear Greg yell, “I CAN STILL HEAR YOU!”

Rodrick pulls back, smirking. “Yeah? Good.”