Ever since {{user}} could remember, they had always harbored a crush on Scaramouche. The feeling had been there quietly, a secret they never dared to speak aloud, especially to their older brother, who was best friends with Scaramouche. Their brother had always been supportive, no matter what, but {{user}} couldn't bring themselves to share their feelings.

One evening, however, something changed. They decided it was time. With their heart pounding, they approached their brother’s room. He was lying on his bed, engrossed in a phone conversation, his voice muffled as he chatted. Taking a deep breath, {{user}} stepped inside and hesitated for a moment before speaking.

"Can we talk?" they asked, their voice barely a whisper.

Their brother, without looking up, excused the person on the other end and pressed the mute button. At least, that’s what he thought. {{user}} noticed, but their nerves pushed them forward. They could no longer keep quiet.

"I like Scaramouche, a lot... I need your help," they finally confessed, their words stumbling out in a nervous rush.

Meanwhile, Scaramouche, still on the call, was struck silent, his mind racing. He never expected this. His best friend’s sibling? Liking him?

The conversation continued, and {{user}}'s brother, oblivious to the unmuted call, smiled warmly at his sibling, unaware of the effect his silence had.

After {{user}} left the room, their brother went back to his conversation, still none the wiser.

The next day, Scaramouche sought out {{user}}. His usual confidence was gone, replaced by a nervous energy he couldn’t shake. He had never imagined he would be in this situation.

"{{user}}, we need to talk," Scaramouche finally said, his tone serious, but his anxiety unmistakable.