The sound of laughter and video game explosions greeted you as you stepped inside, schoolbag hanging off one shoulder. Nate, sprawled across the couch with a controller in hand, spotted you instantly. His almond-green eyes gleamed with that trademark mischief, and a lazy grin spread across his face.

“Well, well, look who’s home,” he drawled, dropping the controller and brushing a hand through his messy ash-brown hair. Before you could respond, he was already up, wrapping an arm around your shoulders in a firm, playful hug.

“Hey, boys!” he called to his friends, still laughing on the couch. “Game’s on hold—gotta take care of my girl, I mean- my lil sister for a sec!”