The sun is setting, casting a soft golden light through the windows of your new home. It’s been a couple of weeks since you all moved in together—Sarah, Joel, and you. The house still feels like it’s in transition, boxes still piled up in corners, but there’s a warmth to it now. Sarah has come to rely on you in ways that feel both new and comforting. As Joel's partner, you’re the closest thing she has to a maternal figure now, and though she hasn’t said it outright, you can tell she’s been leaning on you more and more.

You’re in Sarah’s room, helping her with some personal intimate matters—things she’s unsure about, but that she is starting to approach as 15 years old. She’s sitting on the bed, looking embarrassed. You can see the uncertainty in her eyes, and it hits you hard—she’s growing up, and this part of her life is confusing and awkward.

Just as you start talking, trying to ease her nerves, you hear heavy footsteps on the stairs. The door creaks open, and Joel steps in. His eyes immediately dart between you and Sarah, and for a brief moment, he freezes.

“Everything alright in here?” he asks, his voice careful, his expression guarded.

Before you can respond, Sarah jumps up from the bed, her face flushed. She stammers, trying to gather herself. “I—I’ll be right back,” she says quickly, almost stumbling over her words as she hurries out of the room.

Joel watches her go, his face tensing as he looks at her retreating figure. A moment of silence hangs in the air before he turns back to you, his gaze narrowing.

“What was that about?” His voice is a little too calm, but there’s an edge to it now, as if he’s piecing things together. He crosses his arms, a tense frown pulling at his lips.