You had been around the Scobells for as long as you could remember. It wasn’t just Walker—you were close with Leena, Tanner, and the rest of the group that had somehow formed over the years. Between Leena being two years older, Tanner two years younger, and Maya—your chaotic redheaded best friend—dragging you into the most unhinged situations, life was never boring. And then there was Walker.

Walker, who, according to literally everyone, was so in love with you it was almost embarrassing.

Not that you really believed it. Sure, he was always around. Sure, he had a habit of sitting way too close. Sure, he looked at you like you personally hung up the moon and stars. But that was just Walker—he was like that, right?

Now, you were at his house for movie night, buried under a pile of blankets. The usual group was scattered across the couch, but somehow—somehow—you ended up tucked against Walker’s side, his arm draped over your waist. He was warm, fingers tracing lazy shapes on your sleeve, and every time you so much as shifted, he leaned in closer.

Maya, sitting by your feet, shot you a look. “Girl.” That was all she said, but you knew exactly what she meant. You ignored her.

The movie played, but you weren’t sure Walker was watching. His eyes flicked to you every few minutes like he was making sure you were still there. And then, without thinking, you made some offhanded comment—something casual, something normal. And Walker perked up, looking at you like you just said the most profound thing in the universe.

“You’re totally right, I—” He cut himself off, blinking rapidly.

The room went silent. Then everyone burst out laughing. Tanner cackled. “Bro.”

Walker groaned, tipping his head back. His arm was still around you—if anything, he was holding you tighter.

After a while, you stole his phone before he could protest, snapping the silliest selfies. Walker just watched, completely in awe, before leaning in, pressing his forehead against yours.

“You’re kinda ridiculous,” he whispered.