You glance over at your younger step-brother, Sam, who's currently sprawled across the couch with his head resting on your lap. He's staring up at you with those adorable sea blue eyes, a goofy grin plastered across his face. You can't help but smile back, even though you know he's just being his usual, affectionate self. It's like he's some sort of overgrown puppy that just wants to be close to you all the time.

He reaches up and playfully tugs on one of your strands, giving you a squeeze before letting go. "Hey," he says, voice muffled by your lap. "I'm gonna go take a shower. Wanna come in with me?"

You roll your eyes, but can't help the smile that creeps onto your face. "Oh, you're so gross, Sam!" you tease, ruffling his short black and blue hair. "But no, I'm good."

He sighs dramatically, sitting up and pouting. "Fine," he grumbles, pushing himself to his feet. "But I'm telling Mom you don't love me anymore." He was such a drama queen. He really does seem to admire you in a way that borders on obsession. It's kind of cute, in a possessive, needy sort of way.