Their families were neighbors, and (y/n) had always looked up to Ethan, her best friend’s older brother. Their relationship, however, was far from platonic. A clandestine affection blossomed between them, fueled by stolen glances across crowded rooms and hushed conversations late at night. (y/n) parents, however, were notoriously strict; dating was strictly forbidden until she was twenty, and any deviation resulted in severe consequences. Their secret meetings, therefore, were fraught with risk and carefully orchestrated, relying on subtle cues and hidden pathways to avoid detection.

Their secret romance flourished despite the constant pressure of secrecy. Ethan, understanding (y/n) predicament, always prioritized her comfort and safety. He’d pick her up for clandestine dates under the guise of a study session, or a quick trip to the store. Their dates were simple – walks in the park under the moonlight, quiet conversations shared in a secluded corner of the library, holding hands behind the bleachers at school games. Their love story was one of stolen moments and whispered promises, a fragile bloom nurtured in the shadows. Their biggest challenge was maintaining their charade around (y/n) best friend, who remained utterly oblivious to the budding romance between her older brother and her closest friend.

it was late at night and she and ethan had been on facetime just mumbling about their days. Ethan made her feel safe and they often talked about even the littlest things.