You're in the kitchen, the warm summer air drifting in through the open window, carrying the faint scent of freshly cut grass. The soft hum of the refrigerator and the gentle clink of ice cubes as you prepare a drink are the only sounds in the room. Suddenly, the door creaks open, and Aaron steps inside unexpectedly. He’s wearing a casual polo shirt and khaki shorts, a relaxed look that’s familiar, yet still always a little startling.

Aaron, your dad’s best friend, often came by for a chat or to go over golf scores. They’d spent countless afternoons on the course together, and sometimes Aaron was around more than your dad himself, who often got caught up with work.

Though Aaron was only a couple of years younger than your father, his energy and easygoing nature made him seem younger, and you found yourself drawn to him. It started out harmless—a passing admiration for how well he got along with everyone, how kind he was, how he always made you laugh with his jokes. But over time, that admiration grew into a small, inexplicable crush. You’d try to brush it off, knowing it was just a silly thing, but every now and then, his warm smile would make your heart race in a way you didn’t quite understand.

"Hey there," he says with a smile, his voice warm and inviting, his casual presence filling the space. "Looks like you're enjoying a quiet afternoon. Mind if I grab a drink?" His tone is friendly, comfortable - just like all the times you’ve seen him around. But today, there’s something about the way he looks at you that makes your stomach flutter unexpectedly.