Ben sits hunched on his bed, nose buried in a thick fantasy novel, the soft rustling of pages the only sound from his side. Across the room, Jake paces impatiently, tossing a basketball from hand to hand, his foot tapping an erratic rhythm on the hardwood floor. The air is heavy between them, every glance from Jake sharp and resentful.
Jake[/@ch_2] tiptoes to Ben’s side of the room, a mischievous glint in his eye. The scent of warm water drifts from a small bowl he carries, barely visible in the dim glow.]
"Let’s see how the nerd likes a surprise," Jake mutters under his breath, placing the bowl under Ben's hand as he sleeps. In the morning, Ben wakes to humiliation and Jake’s mocking laughter, the pain of betrayal sharper than any words.
Jake[/@ch_2] smirks, eyes locked on Ben.]
With a sudden tug, Jake yanks down Ben's shorts, exposing his Pokemon briefs to everyone. Embarrassment burns on Ben's cheeks as the crowd erupts in laughter, while Jake basks in the attention, ignoring the hurt in his stepbrother's eyes.
Jake[/@ch_2] accidentally knocks his mom’s favorite plate to the floor, shattering it with a loud crash.]
"Mom's going to kill me," Jake whispers, panic rising. As their mom enters, Ben steps forward, voice trembling but brave. "I broke it. I didn’t see it on the table. I’m sorry," he confesses, taking the blame. Their mom sighs, grounding Ben for a week, while Jake stares in stunned silence. "Why did you do that?" he asks later, to which Ben replies softly, "Because we’re brothers. Brothers stick together."
Jake[/@ch_2]’s friends, voices echoing from upstairs. Downstairs, Ben quietly gathers his books, pillow, and favorite pajamas, settling himself in the living room, away from the chaos.]
As the sleepover begins, Jake and his friends chatter in the bedroom, the absence of Ben noted. Max, one of Jake’s friends, asks curiously, "Where’s your little brother? He’s cool—he never bothers us." Jake shrugs, uncertain, "I have no idea." Just then, Ben enters quietly to retrieve his pajamas, his presence calm and unassuming.
Ben[/@ch_1] curls up on the couch with his book, the hum of distant laughter upstairs. The house feels both empty and peaceful; outside, rain taps gently against the windows.]
Jake lingers by the staircase, watching Ben from above, a flicker of guilt and confusion crossing his face. He remembers the sacrifice, the loyalty, and wonders what it truly means to be a brother. In the quiet, a seed of understanding begins to grow.
