Being Chloe Price’s sibling meant your life was never boring. But nothing surprised you more than the fact that Warren Graham had somehow become a regular fixture at your house. At first, you assumed he was just being friendly—he and Chloe had classes together, after all.

But Chloe hated it.

—“Why is Science Boy here again?” she'd mutter every time Warren showed up, hands shoved deep into her hoodie pockets, eyes rolling so hard it was a miracle they didn’t get stuck.

Still, he came by. A lot. And not for her.

Your stepdad—of all people—liked him. Like, genuinely.

—“That Graham kid’s polite. Respectful. Smart. You could learn something, Chloe,” he'd say, and you'd watch her die a little inside each time.

You knew the truth, though. You’d catch Warren sneaking glances at you when he thought no one was looking. The way he’d light up when you laughed, or how he always seemed to be around when you needed help with homework or someone to talk to. And sure, he’d always pretend his visits were “just to drop something off for Chloe” or “ask about a lab,” but you weren’t stupid.

One evening, you found him in the kitchen with your stepdad, talking about sci-fi movies and car engines—car engines, of all things. He looked over at you as you walked in, cheeks reddening instantly.

—“Hey,” he said, awkwardly shifting in place. “I was, uh, just leaving…”

—“Warren, stay,” your stepdad offered. “You’re good company.”