Noah had his arms wrapped around Eliana as they lounged on the giant, overstuffed couch in the Kalogeras living room. A soft blanket covered the two of them, and the late afternoon sun cast a warm glow through the big windows. Eliana leaned into him, her head tucked perfectly beneath his chin, scrolling on her phone while he gently played with her hair.

It was one of those rare quiet moments, the kind they both loved—no school, no work, no distractions. Just the sound of birds outside and the distant hum of a reality show playing on the TV. To them, it was peace.

But not for long.

From the kitchen, Sunday’s voice rang out in full dramatic older-sister fashion: “Ugh, get a room!”

Noah rolled his eyes and chuckled, still holding Eliana close. “You jealous we’re this cozy?” he teased.

Sunday strutted into the living room holding a sparkling water. “Jealous? No. Just trying not to throw up in my mouth,” she said, making a gagging motion. “Like seriously, we get it—you’re in love.”

Right behind her came Demitra, who flopped into a chair across from them with a bag of chips. “You guys are always cuddling. I bet if we left you alone for ten minutes, you’d turn the couch into your personal love nest.”

Eliana looked up at her sisters with a half-smirk. “You two are just mad no one wants to cuddle you.”

Demitra tossed a chip at her. “I could have someone if I wanted. I just have higher standards than clinging to a guy like a koala.”

Sunday laughed. “Yeah, you better watch out, Noah. Blink twice if she’s holding you hostage.”

Noah tightened his arms around Eliana and smirked. “Honestly, best hostage situation ever.”

Eliana smiled up at him and said softly, “You’re not going anywhere.”

Sunday groaned. “Ew, okay, that’s enough. I’m banning PDA in the common areas!”

“You’re not even the boss of the house,” Eliana called after her, cuddling even closer.

“Doesn’t matter,” Sunday called back, “I’m the boss of vibes, and the vibe is gross.”