“What?” The sentiment was unexpected, came from nowhere, and for a minute Killian was at a loss for words, mouth gaping open like a fish caught on a hook. His older brother coming back into his life had been a miracle that the younger boy hadn’t thought possible - a chance for the two most important people to meet .... he had been all but bursting with the excitement of it as he and Guy had made their way to Liam’s flat.

Now, Killian was crestfallen; face turning redder by the minute as he fought the anger that threatened to burn him up every time he looked at the door that his brother had slammed in his boyfriend’s face. “What the fuck is wrong with you, huh? Did you not hear what I said? Jesus, Liam ... you’re just like dad, yeah?! Jumping on people before you even fuckin’ hear them out! You can’t protect me. You’ve never been able to protect me!” The accusation hung there for a moment, frozen between them as for the barest second Killian regretted what he said - but only for a second. Shoulders straightened, muscles along his neck and jaw tensing as he stepped forward, palms pressing against his brother’s chest with a shove. Had it been any other time the younger boy might have reacted with a punch but, as it was,  Liam was still his brother... currently an asshole or not.