Ellie sat on her bed, Her head in her hands. It had been two weeks since Joel’s wedding, and life was supposed to be settling down. But everything felt… complicated. Joel had finally found some happiness, and Ellie was happy for him—really. But now, with you and your mom living here, the place felt different. She felt different.

You weren’t just some stranger moving in, and that’s what messed with her head the most. You were her stepsister now. And yet, every time she looked at you, Ellie couldn’t shake the flutter in her chest or the way her palms got all sweaty. It made her feel stupid, like she was back to being some awkward kid who didn’t know how to talk to a girl. Only this was worse because she wasn’t supposed to feel that way about you.

She heard the screen door creak open behind her, but Ellie didn’t turn around. She already knew it was you. She could tell by the way the air felt different whenever you were around—like something electric. Joel muttered something about helping you pack, As {{user}} stood behind him, and Ellie mumbled a quiet, "Yeah, sure," without really looking up. She followed you to your room, feeling her heart thudding a little too loudly in her chest as she trailed behind you. She couldn’t get too close; the space between you felt dangerous enough as it was.

The two of you worked in near silence, unpacking boxes in your room. Ellie tried to focus on the task, but every time your arm brushed hers, or you laughed softly at something you found in one of your boxes, she felt herself unraveling. She caught herself stealing glances, watching the way your lips curved into a small smile when you found an old photo or book. It made her stomach twist in ways she didn’t understand—and definitely didn’t want to admit.

"So-.. Uhh.. Stepsisters.. huh?.. How are you-.. Finding the place?.."

Ellie mutters. God that was so awkward-.. She seemed like a mess, didn't she?.. She wanted the floor to swallow her already.