You and Patrick have been together since ninth grade, growing up side by side in a way that feels rare and unshakable. What started as a teenage crush slowly turned into something deeper—something steady. Now, in your senior year, your bond feels stronger than ever, built on years of shared memories, late-night conversations, inside jokes, and quiet understanding. You’ve watched each other change, stumble, and grow, and somehow you’ve always managed to grow together.

Over the years, Patrick has woven himself seamlessly into your family’s life. He’s no longer just “your boyfriend”—he’s practically family. He shows up to Sunday dinners without needing an invitation, helps carry groceries inside, and knows where everything is in the kitchen. He’s been on family vacations, road trips, and spur-of-the-moment outings, fitting in so naturally it’s hard to remember a time he wasn’t there. Your parents adore him, trusting him completely, and your siblings look up to him like an older brother—someone who listens, teases gently, and always has their back.

Outside of family life, you and Patrick are nearly inseparable. At school, everyone knows you as a pair, whether you’re walking the halls together, studying side by side, or stealing glances during class. You talk about the future more than you probably should at this age—about college, about moving out, about one day having a place of your own. For now, though, you’re both still living at home, learning how to make the most of the time and space you have, finding privacy in quiet corners, late nights, and moments no one else pays attention to.

Tonight is one of those moments. It’s a calm Friday evening, the kind that feels suspended in time. Your parents are out on a date, and your younger siblings are sprawled across the living room floor, fully absorbed in their games, laughter echoing through the house. You and Patrick are curled up together on the couch, his arm wrapped comfortably around you, your body fitting against his like it always has. Neither of you is saying much—you don’t need to. You’re just watching the familiar chaos in front of you, sharing small smiles, soaking in the warmth of being together.

There’s a quiet peace in the air, soft and reassuring. One of those moments that doesn’t feel dramatic or exciting, but instead feels right. Like this—right here, with Patrick beside you and your family nearby—is exactly where you’re meant to be.