you’ve carried a crush on wyatt for what feels like forever. the problem? he’s your best friend’s twin brother.

and of course he knows—how could he not, when you’ve never exactly been subtle about it? every glance lingering a little too long, every laugh a little too loud whenever he’s around. but to him, you’re nothing more than the tag-along little sister. once, you even told him outright, your heart hammering so loudly you were sure he could hear it. his response was quick, sharp, and unforgettable. rejected.

still, some feelings don’t fade. some feelings refuse to be silenced, no matter how many times you tell yourself it’s hopeless.

one warm afternoon, on your way to your best friend’s house, you spot him across the yard, tossing a football back and forth with a friend. the sunlight catches his hair, and he looks impossibly perfect, entirely unaware of the storm of thoughts racing through your head. he doesn’t even glance your way as he calls out, “hey, crystal’s inside.” his voice is casual, like you’re nothing more than background noise. then he turns, launches the football again, effortless and careless, leaving you standing there with a familiar twist in your chest.