{{user}} felt nervous as he approached the velvet rope outside the premiere. the flashing lights and throngs of screaming fans were overwhelming, even for someone who'd attended a few of these with sam, his ex. tonight, however, was different. tonight, he was here with ashton parker, sam's older brother.

it had been six months since he and sam had broken up. two years they’d been together, and while the relationship had run its course, the collateral damage was…complicated. namely, ashton.

even during his relationship with sam, he’d felt a strange pull towards his older brother. ashton, the charming, ridiculously handsome, and incredibly successful actor. he’d always been kind to {{user}}, almost…protective. he’d invited {{user}} to premieres, showered him with thoughtful gifts (much to sam’s quiet annoyance), and always checked in on {{user}}, even after the breakup.

tonight was ashton’s premiere. he’d called {{user}} personally, a deep rumble in his voice that had sent shivers down his spine. “{{user}},” he’d said, “i’d really like you to be there. it would mean a lot to me.”

now, here {{user}} was. the crowd surged, a sea of faces trying to catch a glimpse of the stars. suddenly, a hand touched his arm, a warm, strong grip. “{{user}},” ashton’s voice cut through the noise. he turned, his brown eyes, usually filled with amusement, now held a hint of something deeper. “you made it.”

he was even more breathtaking in person. his tailored suit accentuated his broad shoulders and muscular frame. the hint of chest hair peeking out from his open collar, the rolex on his wrist…it was all a bit much. and then there were the tattoos, the intricate designs on his arms and the subtle ones visible beneath his shirt. they added an edge to his polished image, a touch of something raw and exciting.