"It's okay, Josh, I don't even like him," I said, munching on the fries I had just fried. The aroma filled the room as I focused on the videos playing on the TV.

Unbeknownst to me, Nick had just come home. I felt someone sit beside me and looked over to see my brother, Nick, smiling at me. I said goodbye to Josh and offered Nick some fries.

"So? Who is that?" he asked, chewing thoughtfully while glancing at the screen.

"Who?" I feigned ignorance, though my stomach tightened.

"Don't play pretend with me," he replied, fixing me with a serious look. His blue eyes seemed darker, and for a moment, I felt a flash of nervousness. "I'm asking you again, Arwen, who is that?"

I straightened up, meeting his gaze. "He's no one important, and I've taken care of it," I said, trying to sound smug.

"Okay, if you don't want to tell me, let me ask you something," he said, standing in front of me. "How did you know Sullivan?"

This was the first time he had used that serious tone with me. I put down my bowl of fries, giving him my full attention. "He's my classmate. Why?"

"Someone saw you two together at a billiard hall and in the parking lot, just the two of you," he said, walking toward the kitchen to grab something to drink.

I followed him. "Why is it a big deal that I know him? You two are acting the same," I challenged.

"What do you mean?" He took a sip from his juice can.

"Well, he was shocked to learn I'm your sister. I was embarrassed, honestly—I wanted to smack his head," I said, rolling my eyes.

"How many classes do you have together?" he asked, his tone still serious.

"Just one. Why?"

"Nothing. Just don't get too close to him. He's bad news," Nick said, looking serious.

"Uhm... I wasn't aware you were living the Mr. Latrelle image now," I teased.

"Shut up!" he shot back, but I could see a hint of a smile.

This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

"Well, I can take care of myself, Mr. Latrelle. I think he's harmless," I said confidently.

"Oh Arwen, okay, I'll trust you on this. But I'll take care of Clayton," he said, finishing his juice.

"What? How?" Panic crept into my voice.

"Where are you going?" I added, sensing his determination.

"Ms. Latrelle, I'm meeting someone about my project. And how do I know about that jerk? I have my ways, little sister. No one messes with you," he said, putting on his jacket.

"Please, Nick, don't go after him! I told you I can handle it, and Josh will definitely have his ass!" I pleaded. He took a deep breath, looking conflicted.

"I'll let this go, but no more next time, okay?" Nick said, cupping my cheeks and kissing my forehead.

"Should I cook or what?" I asked, smiling.

"Oh yeah, you can order or cook. I'll be home late, so lock the doors, okay?" he said, grabbing his keys and heading out. I watched him until he disappeared from view.

Once the door was locked, I felt a rush of excitement. "Oh, Peaches! More fries, some ketchup mixed with mayo, and ice-cold Coke! Tonight's going to be great!" I squealed to myself.

I had stayed up too late reading, and now my head throbbed. "Coffee, please!" I groaned, heading to the pantry before my first class.

As I reached for the coffee, I collided with someone, ready to apologize when I heard a familiar voice.

"Hello there, girlfriend. How was your sleep?" he said, smirking.

I looked up at Jaimes and grinned despite myself. "Peachy! Now move!" I hissed, trying to sidestep him.

"Not too fast, angel," he replied, grabbing my waist again. My heart raced as I tried to pull away.

"What do you need?" I asked, feeling the heat rise in my cheeks.

"Well, I saw Latrelle yesterday, and he kind of mentioned you," he smirked, his fingers brushing the fabric of my dress.

I glared at him. "So? What did he say? And can you please let me go?"

"It's too early for that look, angel," he chuckled, finally releasing me. I took a step back, feeling both relieved and frustrated.

Just then, someone approached us, holding two cups of hot coffee. "Hey Sullivan, here's your coffee," the guy said, smiling, and when he saw me, he grinned wider, revealing a set of dimpled cheeks.

Oh! He's cute, I thought, returning his smile.

"Here, have some coffee," Jaimes said seriously, handing me a cup.

"Oh, how sweet! Thanks!" I said, taking a sip. "Hmm... Much better."

"By the way, this is David. And this is Arwen, the younger sister of Latrelle," Jaimes introduced us.

David coughed, clearly surprised. "Are you sure, Sullivan?" he asked, wide-eyed.

I turned to Jaimes, who simply nodded, sipping his coffee.

"What's wrong?" I asked, curious.

"Nothing, just a warning: Clayton might be swarming around you today," Jaimes said, starting to walk away.

"Okay, thanks?" I called after them, watching as Jaimes waved goodbye.

I shook my head, convinced Clayton wouldn't dare approach me again after what I had learned. Or so I hoped.