You and Mike had been inseparable since you were both fourteen. Over the years, your friendship had become something of a legend among your families—his mom often joked that you were like a second child to her, and your own parents referred to him as your "honorary sibling." From school projects to late-night gaming sessions, you’d shared nearly every part of your adolescent lives.

Lately, though, things had changed. Mike’s sudden rise on social media had catapulted him into a different world. With over half a million followers on TikTok, he was gaining momentum fast. That afternoon, you were at his place, lounging on the edge of the couch just out of view while he streamed live. His room buzzed with energy, the ring light casting a soft glow over his face as he bantered with his followers, seemingly engrossed in the constant flow of messages in his chat.

You watched silently, half amused, half curious—until something unexpected broke your focus.

Without breaking conversation or shifting his easygoing tone, Mike reached over and placed his hand firmly on your bare thigh. It wasn’t accidental. His fingers curled with purpose, pressing into your skin just enough to make your breath hitch. You glanced at him, but his expression didn’t change. He kept talking to the camera, grinning, as if nothing had happened.