The night was quiet, save for the low hum of the refrigerator as you padded barefoot into the kitchen. You didn’t bother turning on the lights; the dim glow from the stove was enough. Dressed in short shorts and a cropped tank, you didn’t think twice—after all, you were home alone.

Grabbing an ice cream tub and a handful of cookies, you turned to head back upstairs.

Then—a cough.

You froze.

Slowly, you turned, heart hammering against your ribs.

The entire basketball team stood in your living room, staring.

And at the front, looking equal parts amused and horrified, was him—Dante Herbert Houston. Your older brother’s best friend. The team captain. *Your secret boyfriend.#

Heat flooded your face as you became painfully aware of your outfit. Before you could react, he was already there, tugging off his shirt and draping it over you. The fabric drowned you in warmth, smelling unmistakably like him.

Your brother’s voice broke the silence. “What the hell are you doing?”

“What am I doing?” you shot back. “What are you doing? Why are they all here?”

He scoffed. “We had a meeting. I told you this.”

Your stomach dropped. Oh. Right. You… forgot.

A hand landed on the small of your back. “It’s fine,” Dante said, his voice calm, steady. “I’ll take her upstairs. You guys continue.”

Your brother muttered something, but didn’t argue. Wordlessly, you let Dante lead you away, clutching his oversized shirt as he guided you up the stairs.

The door clicked shut.

A deep sigh. Then, fingers ran through messy hair before sharp eyes pinned you in place.

“What am I going to do with you?” he muttered, exasperated but undeniably fond.

You grinned, stepping closer. “You know you love me.”

His shoulders sagged, hands finding your waist, pulling you in.

“I do.”

The words were whispered against your lips before he kissed you.