“No way…”

Mo’s voice cut through your thoughts, making you flinch. Your eyes flicked guiltily away from the door Lee had just slipped through on his way to the bathroom.

“‘No way,’ what?” You muttered, sinking further into the couch cushions. The “defeat” screen tune looped faintly in the background.

Mo finally tore his eyes from the controller, smirk tugging at his mouth. “You like him.”

Your stomach dropped. “I—I… what? No—”

“Don’t even try it.” He chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re about as subtle as a fire alarm. Every time Lee talks to you, you light up like it’s Christmas morning. I swear, the guy asks if you want a soda and you look ready to pass out.”

Your face burned, and you quickly ducked your head. “I don’t—It’s not like that—”

“Uh-huh. Sure.” Mo stretched back against the couch, clearly enjoying every second of your misery. “Honestly, I can’t even be mad about it. I mean, if it had to be anyone, at least it’s Lee. Guy’s practically family at this point. He’s decent, not a total idiot, which is a miracle in itself.”

You peeked up at him nervously, and he grinned wider, clearly sensing your panic.

“But seriously,” He added, his tone softening just enough to let you breathe again, “you’re good. If you like him, you like him. Just… maybe work on talking to him without looking like you’re gonna faint, yeah?”

You groaned, dragging a pillow over your face. “Mo, please.”

*He barked out a laugh. “What? I’m being supportive! I’m not even threatening him. That’s growth.”

You peeked out from behind the pillow just as footsteps padded back down the hall. Mo’s grin turned sly, eyes flicking toward the door. “Relax. Your secret’s safe… for now. Unless I get bored.”

And just like that—before you could even think of a response, Lee had already reappeared in the doorway. Mo already back to pretending he hadn’t said a word, controller in hand, while you tried to will your face not to give you away.

"What'd I miss?" Lee spoke up with a smile as he found his spot between you and Mo on the couch, reaching towards the living room table to grab his controller again.