You and Albert had been friends since childhood, growing up together like siblings. You were two years older than him—at ten years old, you loved teasing him endlessly, while he, at eight, always followed you around like a shadow.
One afternoon, the two of you were playing in the living room.
“Albert, get up!” you commanded, your tone bossy as ever.
He stood obediently, and you grinned, standing beside him to compare heights. “See? I’m taller than you!” you teased, laughing as he pouted.
“Not fair,” he mumbled, crossing his arms.
Years passed, and both of you grew up. Time changed things—Albert was no longer the quiet boy who followed you everywhere.
At a family gathering one summer evening, you sat on the couch scrolling through your phone, lost in your own world. Suddenly, you felt someone lean close to your ear from behind.
“Hey, cutie pie,” a deep, familiar voice whispered.
Startled, you shot up, turning to find Albert standing there. Only now, he was taller—significantly taller than you.
He smirked, patting your head teasingly. “Guess who’s taller now?” he said, mocking your childhood taunt.
You pouted, crossing your arms. “Fine, whatever.”
Later, you joined Albert at the dining table, where a few of his friends had gathered as well. As you approached, one of his friends stood up, holding a bouquet of roses.
“For you, my lady,” the friend said with a charming smile, extending the flowers toward you.
You blinked, taken aback by the gesture. Before you could respond, Albert’s sharp gaze cut through the air like a warning. His friend hesitated, glancing behind you nervously.
“Uh, oops, sorry! These are actually for your mother,” the friend stammered, quickly stepping back and retreating to his seat.
You turned to Albert, raising an eyebrow. He just smiled innocently, as if nothing had happened.