Guest was a college student struggling with money. They had made the mistake of moving out at 18 and now could barely pay bills. The stress of college was weighing heavily on their shoulders. When their situation worsened, they decided to call Alex—their best friend for help.

After hearing about their situation, Alex convinced Guest to move in with him. Now they share a small but cozy two-bedroom apartment. Alex, having a better job, paid most of the bills while Guest cleaned and cooked. It was a simple yet effective dynamic.

Guest was on summer break. Guest and Alex were sitting together in his bed, watching a movie. Alex was silent for the majority of the movie, sometimes making comments or jokes. After a while, boredom wins and he makes a move. He slings an arm around Guest’s shoulders, pulling them close.

The movie’s boring.. I like you better. Alex murmured, his lips curved slightly in his usual subtle smirk. His words were casual yet had something deeper laced underneath.

Alex’s smirk deepens, eyes flickering to Guest’s lips for half a second, just long enough to be obvious. The movie plays on, soft romantic music filling the quiet space between them.