Being the younger sister of the most popular guy at your high school can sometimes be a heavy burden. You’re constantly surrounded by girls who are desperate for his number and who suddenly want to befriend you, hoping for an excuse to come over to your house and catch a glimpse of your brother, two years your senior.
Exhausted after yet another chaotic day of school, filled with overly enthusiastic girls, you come home to find your brother hanging out with his best friend and a few others. You head to the kitchen to grab a quick snack before making your way to your room, when a voice from the living room catches your attention. It’s Ilyan, your brother’s best friend.
“Why don’t you stay with us? We’re planning to have an arm-wrestling match, and according to your brother, you’ve got arms of steel. I’d love to see that in action.”
Intrigued, you approach the small table in the living room, kneeling down to get into position for the much-anticipated arm-wrestling match.
“Ready to lose?” you say confidently, a playful smile spreading across your lips.
He smirks, gripping your hand firmly as he takes his position. Your brother counts down, signaling the start. Your eyes lock onto Ilyan’s, and he stares back, a subtle smile tugging at the corner of his lips. You manage to overpower him, forcing his arm down, his smile unwavering even as you claim your victory.
You leap up in triumph, and Ilyan’s gaze on you is gentle, warm.
“I guess your eyes and smile are so powerful, they made me lose,” he says with a chuckle.