─ oblivious! reader x brother best friend! Ollie ─ ROOKIES OF LOVE
In which, reader has a terrible love life and is tired of watching people's love lives. But apparently, it seems that Cupid had other plans, and so did her brother.
includes: romance ; high school ; childhood friends ; jealousy ; overprotective brother ; brother best friend ; mutual pining ; unspoken feelings
author's note: shout out to my fellow hopeless romantic, who never held hands with boys (just like me). It's my first time writing an 9K fic. I hope you enjoyed it and be looking forward rookies of love serie !
cw/tw: overprotective brother, alcohol, hopeless romantic, being stood up, overthinking, self-comparison,
songs inspo: 𝅘𝅥𝅮Cruel Summer𝅘𝅥𝅮 - Taylor Swift ; 𝅘𝅥𝅮Wildfire𝅘𝅥𝅮 - Cautious Clay ; 𝅘𝅥𝅮People Watching𝅘𝅥𝅮 - Conan Gray
SITTING ON THE ENTRANCE STAIRS OF STALVEY HIGH, you folded your arms to warm yourself up, as the fresh spring wind gave you chills. It’s been less than one hour since you have been waiting for your brother, Sasha, to pick you up. He was supposed to end classes at the same time as you. And yet, here you are, phone in your hand, schoolbag at your feet, still waiting for him.
You sighed in annoyance as you checked the hour on your phone. “I’ll beat his ass,” you swore to yourself.
Just as you were about to call your brother, with your phone in your hand, you heard footsteps on the pavement getting closer. Until the person towered over you. Your patience had already been tested; you didn’t need someone to get on your nerves. Confused, you glanced at the person standing in front of you, blocking the sun, and were left surprised when you recognized it was Ollie, your brother’s best friend.
He grimaced when he noticed your annoyed stance, “Looks like someone was about to throw a punch.” He teased.
You lazily smiled, hands rubbing on your lap, in an attempt to warm them. “Yeah, sorry about that.”
He glanced around, but then his eyes lingered on you, quite worried. “What are you doing here? It’s getting late”. It was past 6 pm, and the sky was gradually turning orange, signalling that the sun would soon set.
“Well, Sasha was supposed to pick me up, but here I am,” you sighed, shoulders heavy from tiredness.
Confused, Ollie tilted his head. “He didn’t tell you?”
You frowned, “Tell me what?”
He sighed, hand brushing his face from what he had to tell you. “Sasha had to leave earlier to check on Joanne, apparently she caught a severe case of the flu.”
You groaned, standing up. The disappointment hit harder than the cold. “No, he didn’t even call me.” You threw your bag over your shoulder, feeling more drained than angry. “Thanks for telling me, I’ll just walk then.” You shrugged, gathering the little energy that you still had.
He rolled his eyes, completely deadpan. “Don’t be silly, you’re freezing”. He was already fumbling his keys in his pocket. “I’ll give you a lift.”
You didn’t have the chance to protest when Ollie gently tugged you with him, making you smile softly. You both walked side by side, your hands rubbing your arms, as the wind started to blow again. Ollie noticed from the corner of his eye.
You sensed Ollie moving at your side before he handed you his jacket uniform. “Take it,” he reassured, “I don’t want you to be sick because of your brother.” Too cold to pretend otherwise, you grabbed it without protest. You zipped it up, comforted by the familiar scent of Ollie that enveloped you. It felt as if a warm hug was embracing you.
Indirectly, Ollie has also been a part of your life when he started hanging out with your twin brother. Always at your place, always around, and always nice to you. It soon became a trio, with Sasha and Ollie consistently pranking you, leading you to plan your revenge – Ollie sometimes on your side, just like now.
Now, in front of his car, he opened the door for you as you sat on the passenger seat. It’s the first time he’s giving you a lift; it used to be your brother, but now that he has a girlfriend, it happens less often.
Ollie drives through the city, humming the tune of the song playing. You grinned silently, amused by him. Your eyes darted through the window, watching people walking on the streets. Some of them are couples walking hand in hand, making you wonder when love will come to you.
You wished you had someone, too. Someone who could drop everything he has planned just to make sure you were alright. Someone who waits for you. You were getting tired of being the witness to your friend’s love life. Of course, you’re happy for them, but you can’t stop thinking about why you never experienced it.
But the reality is different from what you see. Without realising, you have been experiencing those moments with someone. You were just blind to see who it was.
Too caught up in your thoughts, you didn’t realise Ollie turned off the engine. “There you go, Ma'am”. He grinned, eyes focused on you.
You snorted, holding back your smile, “Thank you, Sir”. Your finger was working to untuck your belt, then you remembered. “Oh, here before I forgot,” you said, ready to take off his jacket.
Quickly, his hands on your, stopped you from removing it. “Keep it, don’t worry. You can hand me next time”. His brown eyes lingered on you, trying to convince you.
You gave in, not wanting to protest. “Thanks, I’ll take care of it.” You towered over the control center to place a kiss on his cheek as a goodbye. You did it naturally, like routine.
Back in your seat, you soon realized that this innocent act felt different to him; his eyes were wide, and his lips parted, but no sound came out.
He coughed lightly, trying to regain his composure. “No worries, text me next time if you need a lift after class.”
You nodded, pleased by the offer. “Sure, you drive better than Sasha anyway,” you joked before leaving his car with the sound of Ollie laughing in the back.
Ollie stayed parked in front of your house, waiting for you to get in. This simple action warmed you. You waved at him before opening your front door, signalling to him, he can go now.
Now standing in your living room, your mother came by. “Oh, hi sweetie, you finally made your way back.”
You greeted her, dropping your schoolbag and your shoes at the entrance. “Yeah, Sasha left me for Joanne, so I got late”.
Her eyes widened. “You walked through here?” she asked, not pleased at all about your brother's behaviour.
You shook your head as you walked through the kitchen looking for a sweet. “No, thankfully, Ollie dropped me.”
“Oh, that’s nice of him,” you heard her say from the living room. “I suppose the jacket is also his, huh?” Even if you could see her, you could bet she was smirking with her mocking tone.
You blushed at her insinuation. “It’s not like this, Mom,” you whined, suddenly embarrassed.
“Sure, sweetie, whatever helps you”. She laughed, brushing off the subject, not wanting to press you.
Ollie Bearman may have gained a supportive fan.
Lying on your bed, you stared at the ceiling, wishing sleep would come find you. But, unlike what you wanted, you kept shifting positions on your bed. Even though you craved some rest, your mind wasn’t cooperating at all. You sighed in exhaustion when you checked the hour on your phone, indicating now 1.40 am.
It has been a long time since you had insomnia. Your case wasn’t severe; it only happens days a year, so you didn’t need to take medicine. The only thing that could work is watching TV shows until you fall asleep.
So, you decided to accept your fate and get out of bed, in the direction of your living room. You tried to be as sneaky as possible, not wanting to wake up anyone. Each step was taken meticulously on the wooden stairs; the house was left in the dark and silence, the kind that overwhelms you. You chose to switch the light on the lamp beside the sofa, offering now a warm atmosphere to the room. You also grabbed the plaid resting on the armchair to curl yourself in, now comfortable on the sofa, ready to binge-watch.
After two episodes of Teen Wolf you which has been playing in the background, you heard someone making his way downstairs. Too lazy to take a glance, you waited for the person to talk first.
“Couldn’t sleep too?” Ollie whispered from the back of the sofa, close.
You turned your head to face him. His hair was messy, and you noticed bags under his eyes, tiredness written on his face. He was worse than you; you can’t deny that.
You nodded. “Did I wake you? I didn’t know you were staying tonight”, you apologized because sleep is sacred, and you know it.
Ollie is quick to shake his head, “Your brother wanted to play together; guess time passed by really fast”. He laughed softly, hand rubbing the back of his neck.
You smiled at that but couldn’t help to pity his state. “You should rest; you look like shit”.
He chuckled at your statement. “Wow, you wound me”, he answered, placing his hand on his heart.
You were about to answer back when he sat gently beside you. Not too close but not too far to make you feel there was a gap between you two. You rolled your eyes and sighed at his stubbornness, while Ollie seemed to be more than okay, even amused.
Now focus on the show; you didn’t feel the need to talk with Ollie, and neither did he. Just two people bounding over Stiles Stilinski on a couch. You could feel the heat of his arm resting on the back of the sofa just behind your head. It felt cosy and peaceful to the point that your eyes were fighting to stay open.
From the corner of his eyes, Ollie watched you struggling to stay awake. He can’t deny that it was cute. You were squinting slowly, strands of hair covering your face, with your lips slightly parted. You’re soon to fall asleep, Ollie just has to wait a few seconds. He tries, he really tries to ignore the annoying tie on his chest that he has when he looks at you.
He didn’t remember when it first started, probably back in times when his mother kept inviting you over to stay for a meal at his place when Sasha came playing. He found it funny the way you were so eager to help his mother with dinner. Or the first time you won the soccer competition at school, and you dedicate your win to Sasha and him. His heart was truly filled with pride, or maybe something else.
As you woke up and opened your eyes, you were surprised when you realised you were back in your bedroom. You remember watching Teen Wolf with Ollie and then nothing. It could only mean that Ollie had carried you to your room.
You groaned at the realisation, hiding yourself under your blanket from the embarrassment. The situation left you confused. Ollie has always been nice to you, but not to that point. You sighed, mentally preparing yourself because you’ll have to face him at breakfast, and you are not sure how to act now.
Then, reality hits you, brushing away your confused thoughts about Ollie. “He’s Sasha’s best friend, my friend, and that’s it.” You muttered, convincing yourself that it’s nothing, before heading downstairs.
You soon noticed your brother still eating his breakfast, with Ollie sitting next to him. The bags under his eyes were still there, but less present, which means he rested too. You resisted the urge to blush when your eyes met, not wanting to make things awkward.
Sasha interrupted this moment to greet you, “Look at this, the Grinch finally woke up”, he said, amused, making Ollie chuckle.
“Very funny”, you fake-laughed and rolled your eyes as you left them for the kitchen.
Fumbling in the kitchen, you were searching for something to eat, and you swore you could feel a certain pair of eyes following your movements. You chose to brush it off again until your mother interrupted your thoughts.
She stood beside you, making herself a cup of tea when she elbowed your side, with her teasing demeanour. “He would be a perfect son-in-law, don't you think so?"
Your eyes widened, taken aback by her statement, making you spill the cup of water you were pouring yourself. Cheeks now creeping with red, your mother was definitely enjoying the show.
“Mom”, you whispered, threatening her to stop it. You even narrowed your eyes, trying to regain composure when in reality you were down bad.
But little did you know, or maybe your mother did it purposely, Ollie overhears that conversation from the table across. He cannot help but smile, honoured by the huge compliment your mother made.
“Why are you smiling like an idiot?" your brother asked him, confused and unaware. But Ollie is quick to react, not wanting to seem suspect.
"N-nothing”, he stuttered.
Your brother nodded, not entirely convinced, but didn't press about it. Meanwhile, you were left in embarrassment with your mother mocking you.
After all, a mother always knows when her daughter lies, right?
Lab class was hell with Mrs Dougan and her seatmate system. She loved to pair her students based on their energy together and affinity. She thought of herself as the Cupid of Stalvey, and maybe she does deserve the title sometimes when her matches worked throughout the year.
That’s why you ended up with Josh as a seatmate. He was a little bit cold and shy at first, almost not saying a word to you during activities. But then it soon turns out that he was quite funny and attentive to you. He worked when you asked him to and completed his tasks (not like your last seatmates).
Most of the time, you ended up snorting during classes when Josh cracked a joke about Mrs Dougan always being late. Lab classes were always followed by a “study session” at the self, but in reality, you just ended up chatting together. A pretext to get closer to you.
You couldn’t name the dynamic with Josh: was it just friendship? Were you just fantasising about a possible romance with someone who gives you attention? You tried to stay unbothered, to remain reasonable while he subtly dropped hints of being in to you — until it was clear enough to you. When he asked you to go on a date. A real date outside of school, just the two of you.
So, here you are, excited as ever and stressed as hell in front of your mirror, struggling to pick up an outfit. You hesitated between wearing a casual outfit or something cute yet a bit too much for a first date.
You wondered if Josh was also nervous, if he was also struggling with something to wear.
Too deep in your thoughts, looking at your figure, you didn’t pay attention to the knock at your door. It wasn't until you saw the reflection of the door opening in the mirror and Ollie coming in that you turned quickly, surprised to see him. And you could feel he was too, but not for the same reason. You were stunning in that simple black dress, cute yet casual, with your hair done in a low, messy bun.
He cleared his throat, hand rubbing the back of his neck. “I-uh came to say hi before you leave for Carla’s house”, he told you as he closed your door.
“No, I’m still struggling to find what to wear,” you sighed, sitting on the edge of your bed.
He stepped closer, brows furrowed. “Well, isn’t it supposed to be a casual hangout?” The question felt as if he already knew your plan.
You fidget with your fingers, already preparing yourself for your confession. “I actually lied,” you paused. Your heart pounded in your chest, and you couldn’t help but think that it was harder than you thought. “I’m about to see Josh,” you finally admitted.
Something flickered on his face; you're sure about it.
His brows were even more furrowed, and his mouth opened but soon closed, as if he wanted to say something but couldn’t bring himself to do it. “Josh? Like the guy in lab classes?”
You nodded in confirmation, looking at your hands as you fidgeted them to support yourself.
“And does your brother know about it?” he asked carefully, voice barely audible, somehow still shocked.
His tone caught your attention. “No, and he doesn’t have to,” you insisted. “Please don’t tell him”, you stood up, eyes begging him.
He nodded slowly, still processing the fact that you’re going on a date with Josh, and that he must hide it from your brother. It wounds him.
The girl he has crushed on for ages is going on a date, and he must lie to his best friend to cover for his little sister. What a mess.
None of you spoke, yet the way his eyes flickered on you says it all. His gaze heavy on you made the silence between you two loud enough, making you shift in your position.
You were no longer nervous about the date, but because of Ollie… and the way he looked at you, begging you to stay here. It came to the point that you couldn’t hold it anymore. You needed to avoid him.
You turned your back, now in front of your mirror, looking at your outfit. Ollie, still behind you, was also looking at your reflection, and you tried your best not to hold his gaze.
You cleared your throat.“Since you're here, could you help me choose between these two?" He nodded through the mirror.
He stepped closer, standing just behind you, and you could feel his breath hitting your neck. You studied him carefully through the mirror, eyes never leaving his movement.
Ollie was focused, eyes flicking between dresses, considering the options. His hands brushed the dress you were wearing, examining it, and his eyes lingered longer than they should have on your body.
Ollie cleared his throat and stepped back. He realises how close he was to you. “Wear that one,” he pointed to the black dress. “You’re pretty in it,” he said with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.
You didn’t have the time to answer back as he stormed out of the room.
He left, and now you don’t know what to think anymore. He left like nothing had happened or mattered.
And simply as that, you realise how Ollie Bearman may affect you.
Sitting at Donna’s Café down the river, you were still waiting for Josh to come over. It's been over twenty minutes since you’ve been waiting for Josh. You can’t help but be nervous. You keep checking your phone, hoping for a message — but there's nothing. Not a text, not a call. Nothing.
Once again, you don’t understand what happened. Have you been imagining things? No, absolutely not, he was the one asking you to go out. Maybe he’s just late, right?
Legs bouncing, you’ve sensed the pity look the waiters have given you from the counter. You were fuming and disappointed because you had been expecting this for a week now. This date with Joshua and his funny jokes. Yet nothing came, and you’re now left with nothing but pain and broken expectations. The worst part of this? You hated that part of you that still hopes he might show up.
You could feel the employee's judgment following you when you left the café. The fresh air down the river hit your bare legs, making you shiver. You almost regretted putting effort into your outfit. All you want is to go home and rest after the humiliation you have been put in.
You were filled with shame and anger. It felt too much.
You wiped your eyes quickly, scrolling through your contacts for someone to pick you up. You tried calling after your brother, but once again, he never answers when you need him. You thought about Carla too, but she doesn't have a driver's licence, so it would be useless to call her. And no way you’re calling your parents. You didn't want to embarrass yourself - they already think you're a lost cause in love with all the failures you faced.
There is only one option left: Ollie. He has a car; he’s a close friend, and he knew where you went. You sighed, unsure if it was the right idea after what happened in your room. Too exhausted and desperate to find another solution, you still pressed his contact.
He answered too quickly, which caught you off guard. He was the one who spoke first, quite worried. "Hey, is everything alright?"
You closed your eyes, focusing on controlling your sobs. "I'm sorry to burden you, Ollie…but could you pick me up at Donna’s Café?"
"Sure, give me ten minutes, I’ll be there," he reassures you. “And stay where you are”.
He had already hung up the phone before you had the chance to thank him. You felt relieved, not having to explain yourself over the phone, even though you knew he would question it later.
Ollie rushed. He was hell worried and surprised by your call. You were supposed to have a great date, and yet he has to come and pick you up. Ollie doesn't ask questions; he simply came, and that’s what you do when you care about someone: you act.
You spotted Ollie’s car right away and sighed in apprehension. You don’t know how to act anymore. Too caught in your thoughts, you didn't pay attention to Ollie getting out of his parked car, now walking towards you.
He greets you with his soft smile signature, and without thinking, you run into his arms, reaching for his warmth. Little did you know that Ollie is more than willing to offer you that.
Head resting on his chest, his arms curled around you, the noise and what Josh had done became more bearable in Ollie's arms.
Eyes closed, your focus was on his heartbeat, relaxing you. You could feel his hand gently stroking your hair, as if you were fragile. "Would you tell me what happened? " he muttered carefully, not wanting to press you. "Where is he so that I could go talk to him?"
You scoffed, still hurt about the fact that Josh stood you up."No need to," you paused, eyes focused anywhere but on Ollie. "He simply didn't show", you confessed, ashamed.
Taken aback, his eyes snapped to catch your face. He gently took a step back to look at you properly. To say Ollie was surprised by your confession would be an understatement. Who on earth would want to lose his chance with you when some are craving one?
His warm hands were now stroking your bare shoulder, giving you the support and the comfort you needed. Ollie's eyes flickered on your face.
"I think you deserve way better", he stated softly, catching your attention. Your eyes finally met, wrecking your inner thoughts. "You'll find someone who acts on their words and treats you better, I promise you".
Ollie's words resonate inside you. You know you are worthy of love; the question is, when will it come? You try your best to control your emotions, suppressing your worries and your fears, when deep down, you wish someone like Ollie could be interested in you, because instead of others, he would treat you right.
You struggled to maintain your composure from the tightening of your throat. Now incapable of speaking to the risk of crying again, you nodded to Ollie's comment. He soon noticed your vulnerable state and chose not to press any further.
"Come on, let's go", he gave you his hand for you to reach, and naturally, you took it without thinking. It felt as if it was meant to be in this way.
Hand in hand towards his car, like many times before. And maybe it's the way it should be.
Come on! We have to go to Gabriel's party tonight, everyone will be there", Carla begged you, her hands on your shoulder with determined eyes. You roll your eyes, smiling because you were actually considering it.
"Give me one reason why we should go there, and maybe I'll say yes," you teased her, clearly amused by the situation.
Carla is quick to squeal with enthusiasm, "Well, Franco Colapinto, I mean, have you seen him? He's fine as hell".
You burst out laughing at her bluntness. "Okay, deal. My brother is out of the town, and I do want to have fun-" You didn't have enough time to finish your sentence, she squeals happily.
She clapped her hands happily. "You won't regret it". The bell rang, meaning classes were about to begin. "Let's meet at 8 pm at his house!" she yelled through the corridor on her way to class. You nodded in response, already excited for the night ahead.
You don't entirely remember how you managed to get your mother to agree, but here we are in Gabriel's living room, full of people dancing and loud bass blasting pop songs. He was known in Stalvey to throw huge parties and invite everyone in. Fair to say, you didn't expect that much of people.
You could feel the music thumping through the walls as you dance with Carla around people swaying way too close. Now sweaty and breathless, all you wanted was a drink. You informed her of your motives and stepped out in the direction of somewhere you could find what you needed.
Now away from the crowd, you heard laughter echoing from what you supposed to be the kitchen, where plastic cups were scattered on the counter. You smelled cheap beer spilled on the counter. Then, your eyes landed on Franco fucking Colapinto, standing near the bar with some of his friends.
And damn, Carla was right, he's fine as hell.
You tried focusing on your quest again, but you felt a pair of eyes on your back, following your movement through the kitchen. You tried pretending you didn't notice him and his friend Isack, if you're right. You poured yourself your drink of vodka — not the first of the night and surely not the last.
"I've never seen you before, have I?"
You turned your back, impressed that Colapinto, known as one of the popular jock of Stalvey, was talking to you.
You smirked, quite amused by the sudden interaction. "Well, it's just you didn't pay attention to me."
Franco chuckled, watching his feet. "Fair enough. I'm Franco. What's your name?" he presented himself, offering his hand to you.
You considered before grabbing his hand. "I'm Sasha's sister," you answered, shaking his hand.
Your response seems to surprise him — you caught the glance he shared with Isack. "Yeah, I remember him during the junior team, he was good at it".
From the hallway, Ollie witnessed the scene. His eyes darted to where your hand was in Franco's. It physically pains him to watch every guy being into you while all he wants is to be with you.
The flirt was obvious, way too obvious, and he couldn't stand it. Fists tightened, and jaw clenched, he finally decided to step in. Ollie was annoyed because he was worried about your safety, knowing too well that Franco Colapinto was a huge flirt, but obviously, it wasn't only that.
You were about to take a sip of your cup when you felt a hand take away your drink. Brows furrowed from confusion and annoyance, you were ready to make a scene, until you recognised Ollie. Your expression softened.
"Ollie, you came !" you squealed happily.
He swore his heart exploded a little just from the way you said his name."Yeah, and I'm glad I did", Ollie answered, staring directly at Franco, who was amused by the scene playing in front of him.
Sensing the tension, you're quick to try easing it.
"You're exaggerating, Ollie. He was just being nice," you stated
From the back, Franco was smirking, used to these kinds of scenes. "Yeah, Ollie, I'm not stealing your girl, don't worry". Franco answered back, hands up.
He exhaled, avoiding your gaze, "She's not-".
You noticed the surprise expression on Franco. "Anyway, I need to dance, let's go, would you?" you cut Ollie, wanting to end this. And thankfully, he took the hint by following you into the corridor.
Even though you didn't expect anything from Ollie, it still hurt you what he was about to say. You wished you mattered a little more than being his best friend's little sister.
You were walking together in the direction of the living room when you heard the first echoing note of Dancing Queen by ABBA.
"Ollie, you have to dance with me, please," you begged.
He shakes his head. "No way, you can't even walk straight, I'm taking you home."
"Just one dance, please." You plead, grabbing his hands.
Your sudden reaction surprised him. His eyes were focused on how you held his hands closer to you and played with them. He never realised until now how comfortable you are with him. "Fine, let's go", he conceded.
You smiled brightly and took the lead, grabbing his wrist to find your way in the crowd.
He's so screwed, but it doesn't matter if, in the end, he can hold your hands.
You bumped shoulders, but you didn't mind them, because at the moment, the dance floor mattered.
You could feel the bass vibrating through the floor, guiding your flow. You shared giggles and laughs with Ollie, who tried his best in his moves. The bass was so loud that you couldn't hear each other, and the crowd was feral around you, making you bump into him.
Your hands rested flat on his chest to steady yourself, while Ollie's hands found their way on your waist, instinctively. You held your breath, aware of the sudden proximity. Ollie's heart was running a marathon under your palm.
"Thanks for this," you insisted, grateful that he was always taking care of you. His eyes lingered on your face, pensive.
He gulped, nervous from the sudden proximity; your hands were burning his skin. "It's normal, I'm always here".
And you blame it on the power of ABBA, but in the dim lights, close to you, Ollie has never been so pretty. The way his eyes locked into yours, you felt your stomach flip.
Too tipsy to think clearly, you lean on him hesitantly, on your tiptoes with your eyes closed. Ollie flexed his hands, still on your waist, grounding himself, fingers tightening slightly. He has to react, but can't bring himself to move.
He doesn't want his first kiss with you to be that way. Not when you're drunk, and then the next morning you'll regret it. Every nerve in his body was torn between desire and security. Because what if he had lost his chance forever?
Yet nothing happened — and your heart hated how much you wished it had, craving just a simple move.
Instead, he pulled back gently, his hands leaving your side. You felt the emptiness where his hands had been. The loss of warmth made you realise what you were about to do. You could see the red creeping up his neck. He still hadn't said a word.
Then he sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I think it's time to go- "
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have-". You interrupted him, eyes closed, ashamed of your action. Your chest ached, and you wondered if you'd ever feel that close again.
He exhaled, eyes softening. He hates himself for hurting you. He stepped closer, catching your attention. "I hope for better timing next time," he confessed.
You studied him, slightly confused. "What do you mean, 'better timing' ?"
He looked around, searching for Carla, avoiding, and playing dumb. "Let's go find Carla, so that I can bring you both home".
"Hello, are you there?" Carla waves her hand in front of your eyes, cutting you from your thoughts.
"Sorry, what were you saying?" You gain back your focus on her
Across the table, she sighed in despair, concerned about you. It's the fifth time you've been absent in your mind this week, making Carla wonder about the origin.
She planted her fork in her pasta, taking a bite. "I was asking what you are planning to wear for the prom?"
You didn't bother to look at her, "Easy, I won't go," you stated nonchalantly.
"WHAT!"She choked on her water, "But we have to, it's our last year", she whined. "They announced it last week, you still have time to figure it out".
You let go of your fork and take a breath. "Carla, please, what's the worth if no one asked me out?"
"Well, aren't I asking you, dummy ?" She stated blatantly.
You rolled your eyes, amused. "You know what I mean".
"And who cares? I mean, we're in 2025, you don't have to be with someone if you want to go there and have fun."
"The problem is I don't know if I would have fun if I go there alone", you confessed.
Her gaze flickered, and she offered you a knowing smile until her eyes widened full of mischief. "What about Leon?"
Leon was the guy from Spanish classes who was super nice to you and often offered to sit together. Small talks there and there after classes brought you closer until you made a fatal error.
"Oh, please, the second I told him I was Sasha's sister, he went white and left in a hurry." She laughed out loud, imagining the scene and his face. You smile at the anecdote now, taking a sip of your drink.
"How chivalrous of him", she wheezed. "And what about Ollie?"
The question caught you off guard, making you choke on your water from the bluntness.
Two weeks have passed since Gabriel's party, and you didn't get the chance to meet Ollie again. Since Sasha spent most of his time with his girlfriend at her place, Ollie didn't come to your home (sadly).
And now you're left with the imagination of a moment you never got the chance to experiment with. Your chest tightened just remembering how closed he had been that night.
You give a forced laugh, "Please, he would never dare to ask me."
"But you could," she specified.
You hated how the idea didn't sound entirely insane. Carla really has the power to shut your mouth with a few words, and you hate her for that even though you know she's right.
"Hello, are you there?" Carla waves her hand in front of your eyes, cutting you from your thoughts.
"Sorry, what were you saying?" You gain back your focus on her
Across the table, she sighed in despair, concerned about you. It's the fifth time you've been absent in your mind this week, making Carla wonder about the origin.
She planted her fork in her pasta, taking a bite. "I was asking what you are planning to wear for the prom?"
You didn't bother to look at her, "Easy, I won't go," you stated nonchalantly.
"WHAT!"She choked on her water, "But we have to, it's our last year", she whined. "They announced it last week, you still have time to figure it out".
You let go of your fork and take a breath. "Carla, please, what's the worth if no one asked me out?"
"Well, aren't I asking you, dummy ?" She stated blatantly.
You rolled your eyes, amused. "You know what I mean".
"And who cares? I mean, we're in 2025, you don't have to be with someone if you want to go there and have fun."
"The problem is I don't know if I would have fun if I go there alone", you confessed.
Her gaze flickered, and she offered you a knowing smile until her eyes widened full of mischief. "What about Leon?"
Leon was the guy from Spanish classes who was super nice to you and often offered to sit together. Small talks there and there after classes brought you closer until you made a fatal error.
"Oh, please, the second I told him I was Sasha's sister, he went white and left in a hurry." She laughed out loud, imagining the scene and his face. You smile at the anecdote now, taking a sip of your drink.
"How chivalrous of him", she wheezed. "And what about Ollie?"
The question caught you off guard, making you choke on your water from the bluntness.
Two weeks have passed since Gabriel's party, and you didn't get the chance to meet Ollie again. Since Sasha spent most of his time with his girlfriend at her place, Ollie didn't come to your home (sadly).
And now you're left with the imagination of a moment you never got the chance to experiment with. Your chest tightened just remembering how closed he had been that night.
You give a forced laugh, "Please, he would never dare to ask me."
"But you could," she specified.
You hated how the idea didn't sound entirely insane. Carla really has the power to shut your mouth with a few words, and you hate her for that even though you know she's right.
You walk determined toward the stadium, the warm breeze of May brushing your bare skin. Your eyes scanned the field, hoping you'd find your brother.
Your mother is working her night shift again, and you forgot that this morning. Now, you have no keys, and you don't even know if your brother will be at home tonight. You're good to sleep under the bridge if you don't find him.
You sighed in relief when you noticed Stalvey's joke team and recognized your brother among the crowd. You quickened your pace, some players recognizing you as you reached the fence. It's been a while since you came to Sasha's session.
You were looking after Sasha, calling out his name. But it's not him who comes to you. It's Ollie.
He was wearing the official Stalvey jersey, and you can't help but think that red suits him well. His chest was rising fast, out of breath as he trotted towards you. His hair was messy, and his cheeks were pink. You weren't prepared for this.
He smiled cheekily, half confused by your presence but still pleased to see you. "Hey, what are you doing here?" he asked, wiping the sweat from his face by lifting his shirt.
You looked away, cheeks reddening, your heart beating fast at the sight. "Have you seen Sasha today?"
"Yeah, he's at the fountain right now," he stated, amused that he caught a reaction from you.
You thanked him and turned your feet, ready to go, but then you recalled Carla's words in your mind. You stopped your moves and looked back over your shoulder to see Ollie still standing near the fence, looking at the team.
"Ollie?" You call after him, heart beating fast.
"Hm," his eyes lingered from the team to you. He seemed composed, almost confident, hands in his pockets.
You fidgeted with your fingers. "Would you — I mean, if you want to," you paused mid-sentence, mentally cursing yourself for what you're about to do. You exhaled, eyes squeezing. "Would you go to the prom with me?"
His eyes widened, taken aback. He never thought you would ask him, that you would do a move. Yet, here you are, standing in front of him. It means something, right? He's not entirely sure, but how could he know if he doesn't make a move too?
"Yeah — Yes, I mean I'd like that, a lot," he confessed, eyes softened, holding yours. You could feel something warming inside your chest. "But, let me ask Sasha first, just in case", he said gently, his eyes flickering over your face, searching for any reaction.
You gulped, nervous, already expecting how your brother could react."Wouldn't it be better if I were the one asking?"
Ollie seemed to consider the option for a second. "No, let me," he insisted, looking down. "I want to do it properly", he admitted, his eyes now back on you, cheeks slightly flushed.
"O-okay," you answered, biting your lips, half in worry and half in expectation.
The moment felt intimate, as if you were both finally naming something, together. You swear he could hear your heart hammering inside.
Ollie couldn't help but smile after you had left the field. He was too pensive, finding ways to ask Sasha for approval, which led to Ollie being scolded by Coach Graham.
His performance was mediocre, but he didn't care that much. He has top priority right now. You.
Sitting on the bench in the locker room, he watches Sasha walking around changing.
"Bro, what was that on the field?" Sasha asked from the bathroom. "You had never missed that much of penalties shootout before".
Ollie stayed silent, mind miles away, eyes fixed on the locker across from him. He was so absent that he didn't hear Sasha's footsteps coming back until he felt the smack behind his head. That worked well; Ollie finally snapped out of his bubble.
"She asked me," Ollie blurted out of context.
Sasha, with brows furrowed, was all ears, "Who asked you what?"
"Your sister-". Ollie paused mid-sentence, eyes following each movement Sasha made in the lockers. "She asked me to take her to the prom", Ollie confessed. And those words made Sasha freeze in place.
Ollie couldn't tell what Sasha was thinking. And he hated that. Was Sasha mad, or was he considering it? The silence was eating him alive.
Sasha shifted his weight from one foot to another. "It's just for that night, right?" he finally asked, eyes scanning Ollie's motive.
Sasha never expected that you could be that bold. Worse, he never thought there was something between you and his best friend. But, it doesn't have to mean something, right? You have known each other for ages; it's normal. It's what friends do.
"Sure, just that night", Ollie stated, lying with no shame to his best friend. The one he never thought he could. Because he knows it deep down, it won't be just one night. He's been craving more since the moment he held back at Gabriel's party.
He was so close to what he's been longing for, but not in the way he wanted to.
"He's coming, don't worry," Carla reassures you, sitting at your desk, still applying lip gloss.
You both had decided to get ready together at your place so that it would be less stressful and lonely to prepare for the final prom of your life. You decided you would put effort into your outfit by buying the damn red dress that caught your eye. But right now, you're more than stressed — and Carla was sensing it
"But what if he's like the other?" you asked, pacing in your room, full of expectations and ready for the night ahead.
She gave you that look, the one that says, 'Are you stupid or what?' and yeah, you could admit on that, but who blames you? You have every right to after what the past months have thrown at you.
Carla stopped her routine and got up to stand in front of you, her hand holding yours. "Girl, this boy is head over heels in love with you. I'm sure he was the happiest man in the world when you asked him out — damn, I wish I was there to see that," she mumbled the last part. "Anyway, he will come, and you know it." She stated, eyes reassuring.
You nodded, processing her words."Do I look great at least?" You fidgeted with your fingers.
She rolled her eyes, still smirked at how affected you are. "You're perfect". You can't help but hug Carla, feeling so grateful to have someone wonderful like her by your side.
But then, you heard a car pulling up at your home entrance. The signal. He's there. Your heart was hammering, excited as never. And a knock on your door confirms it all.
"Ladies, your knights are there," Sasha spoke through the door. He was also attending the prom with Joanne. He told you he would go, so that she could meet his people, but you can't help but think it's just an excuse for him to keep an eye on you, just in case…
You and Carla both shared an encouraging nod, determined to enjoy the night ahead.
As you made your way down, you noticed your parents and Ollie figures standing at the bottom of the stairs, talking and waiting for you. You can't name why, but the sight of it warmed your heart.
From the moment he heard the footstep, his attention was on you. You gulped nervously, feeling small under his stare that lingered on your figure, admiring — almost worshipping. But so do you: he was wearing a black costume with a red tie that matched your dress — it suited him incredibly well.
"Okay, children, time for pictures," your mother announced happily, clapping her hands to get attention. Carla and Derek were the ones to open the ball; it was now the turn of Sasha and Joanne.
"You're incredible," he confessed softly, fearing to be caught by Sasha. You looked down at your feet, smiling with rosy cheeks. Ollie Bearman really knows how to fluster you, and he seems to enjoy it.
You were lost in your thoughts that you didn't hear Sasha clearing his throat. Almost ashamed of interrupting your lovey-dovey moment, "It's your turn," he announced flatly, eyes roaming over Ollie and you. You grabbed Ollie's hand instinctively, ready to take the pictures before things became awkward.
Ollie was standing beside you, his arm behind your shoulder — a classical move. But you decided on something else. You gently tugged his hand, lower, so that his hand could rest on your waist. You knew your brother was watching, but you didn't care. You've sensed Ollie stiffening from your side. You smiled, knowing you affected him, just as he did before.
"Already starting problems, I see," Ollie muttered to your ear, so that only you could hear. He offered you his arm to hold on, and you took it without hesitating, cheeks warming.
"Have fun tonight," your parents yelled from the porch, waving goodbye to you as you headed to Ollie's car with Carla and Derek behind you. Oh, you don't need to worry about it, Mom.
The gymnasium of Stalvey High was unrecognisable.
Fairy lights cascaded from the ceiling, softening the harsh lines of the walls you'd known your entire life. The bass of the music vibrated under your feet as couples gathered near the entrance, laughter echoing in every corner.
Your heart was racing, full of anticipation. Ollie noticed your nervousness instantly.
His hand tightened slightly around yours, enough to anchor you. "You okay?" he asked softly, leaning closer so only you could hear him.
You were still processing everything — your hand in his, the prom, your brother's approval.It can't be anything but real to you. And deep inside, you hope it matters to him, the same way it does to you.
You nodded with a smile, squeezing his hand. "Yeah, I'm just happy to be there."
"Okay, lovebirds, it's time to have some fun." Carla clapped her hands following the rhythm of the bass as the group entered the gymnasium. Derek follows her into the mass of students gathered in the center.
Just as you entered, you felt it. A shy, tiny squeeze, so subtle that you almost didn't feel it, but that still screams "I'm scared too, and you are not alone". Yet, he didn't stop smiling.
Across the room, you spotted Franco Colapinto speaking with Sasha at the buffet; that fact didn't surprise you, knowing your brother. Carla was already dancing with Derek, her eyes landing on you among the crowd, mouthing I told you, earning an eye roll from you.
The music shifted — slower now, smoother — and Ollie straightened beside you, suddenly aware of every inch of space between you.
"Do you want to dance?" he asked, rubbing the back of his neck. Timid, carefully. Very Ollie.
You raised an eyebrow, amused — yet delighted that he considered it. "You're asking me now? Already?"
He smiled sheepishly, "I wanted to do it properly."
And your heart did that loop again. "Yeah," you confessed, stepping closer, "I'd love that."
His hand found yours again, this time with more certainty, guiding you toward the dance floor.
And as the lights dimmed, you realised something quietly.
You weren't watching others anymore.
The song was slower than the others. Almost fragile.
"Can I?" he muttered, eyes asking permission. You nodded silently, words caught in your throat. His hand carefully found the nape of your waist. You answered by resting your hand on his shoulder, fingers curling into the fabric of his suit.
You fit together too easily. Like he had done it many times before.
The world blurred around you — the lights, the noise, the laughter — nothing mattered more than the gentle sway of your bodies and the quiet rhythm you shared.
It was your moment. And no one could break it right now.
"You seem worried," he leaned to your ear. The sudden proximity made you nervous.
"Am I ?" you looked up at him.
He nodded, thumb brushing reassuring circles against your side. "Just a little". You melted under his warm caresses. Feeling finally seen.
You swallowed, "I'm scared".
"Of what?" His steps slowed, afraid.
You hesitated a moment, scared of the consequences of your words, knowing it would change it all. "That this isn't real. That I'll wake up tomorrow and it'll be nothing," you confessed softly.
Ollie stopped moving. Not abruptly — just enough to make you look up at him. You felt something twist in your chest. Were you misinterpreting everything?
You rethink all your moments together — the dress, Gabriel's party, the almost kiss, and his reaction when you asked him out.
"This is real," he said, voice low, steady, his hands remaining on your waist, anchoring himself."You are real. And so is what I feel."
He leaned his forehead against yours, eyes searching your face, as if giving you time to pull away. And when you didn't, his grip tightened slightly, protective, grounding.
"I didn't kiss you that night," he continued nervously, "because I didn't want you to regret it. I didn't want to be another 'almost' in your life".
"And now?" you asked, heart pounding loudly in your chest.
A pause. One heartbeat. Two.
"Now", his eyes searched yours, "I'm asking".
His hand lifted to your cheek, warm, tentative. But waiting. As always.
And that was all he needed.
The kiss was soft. Unrushed. Careful in the way that mattered most. Not desperate — slow and intentional. Like a promise finally kept. Both claiming and savouring.
When you pulled back, breathless, he rested his forehead against yours again, smiling, like he couldn't quite believe this was happening.
"Told you," he smirked, "better timing".
And this time you smiled back, knowing he was right.
But your eyes drifted past Ollie's shoulder.
Sasha was standing a few meters away. Watching.
His expression was unreadable. Not angry, not amused either. Just aware. As if he wasn't surprised
You stiffened under Ollie's hands, and he noticed immediately. His eyes drifted from you to where your brother stands.
His body froze, guilt written all over his face. Almost ashamed — not of you, but of being seen.
You looked up at Ollie."We should talk to him". You stated, squeezing his hand, anchoring both of you.
He nodded, squeezing back.
Sasha didn't move when you approached.
He stayed where he was, arms crossed, jaw tight, eyes flickering between you and Ollie. The music kept playing behind them, laughter rising and falling among the couples — a cruel contrast to the stillness wrapped around the three of you.
"So," he finally said, voice low. "That didn't take long."
You felt Ollie's hand tighten around you. Not to stop you. To stay.
"It's not what you think," you started instinctively, but Sasha exhaled sharply, cutting you off.
" I don't know what I think yet", he replied. "That's the problem".
His gaze settled on Ollie's hands — intertwined with yours. Sharper. He wasn't angry, but disappointed. And that hurt worse.
Not that Sasha didn't trust Ollie or you, but what if it comes to an end? It means losing Ollie. His best friend. It means no more late nights at home, no more stupid arguments. No more trio. It means choosing sides. He hates that.
"You said one night," Sasha continued, eyes on Ollie. "Just prom."
Ollie nodded slowly, "I know what I said."
"And that," Sasha added, glancing pointedly at your hands intertwined, "didn't look like 'just prom'."
The silence stretched, heavy, among the playlist blasted and the crowd of students dancing.
Ollie didn't let go of you.
"That kiss wasn't planned," he said calmly. "But it wasn't a mistake either."
Sasha laughed. Short. Humorless."You're really saying this to me right now?"
"Yeah, because I won't lie to you."
That made Sasha falter — just a fraction. He scrubbed a hand over his face, turning away for a second like he needed air.
"You're my best friend," he said calmly. "And she's my sister. Do you have any idea what you're risking there?"
You stepped forward then, heart hammering. "We do"
Both of them looked at you, waiting for you to continue.
"I'm not a glass thing that's going to shatter if this doesn't work", you said, voice steady. "And I'm not a territory either."
Sasha's eyes softened. "That's not what this is about."
"Then what is it about?" you asked gently. "Do you think I didn't know that all the guys who have been rejecting me were because of your protectiveness?"
That made Sasha step back.
He hesitated for a second. "What happens if it ends?" he admitted, "What happens to us? To him and me ? To everything."
There it was. The truth, finally exposed.
Ollie swallowed. "I don't want to lose you," he said honestly. "I never did."
"But you're still willing to risk it", Sasha shot back.
"Yeah, because pretending I don't feel this won't save anything. It would mean I should give up without even trying." Ollie confessed. "I know what I'm risking," he said, finally meeting Sasha's eyes. "
You felt your throat tighten.
Sasha looked at you again. Really looked. Not as a brother guarding, but as someone seeing you choose.
"You care about him, don't you?" he said.
"I do." You nodded, squeezing Ollie's hand.
"And you?" Sasha asked Ollie. "Is this just curiosity? Or are you going to hurt her because you didn't think it through?"
Ollie didn't hesitate. "I've been thinking about her for years."
You looked at him, taken aback by his confession. You never thought he considered you for years. And just thinking about this makes your chest tighten.
"I held back when I shouldn't have," Ollie continued. "Because I was scared. Of you. Of messing things up. Of being the reasons things change," He met Sasha's gaze, unwavering. "I've thought about it more times than you think. And I chose not to be a coward this time."
Finally, Sasha exhaled, long and tired.
"You're idiots", he muttered, hand rubbing his face.
"But", he added, looking at Ollie, "if this blows up… I'm not choosing sides."
Ollie nodded," I wouldn't ask you to."
Sasha turned to you then, eyes softer than you expected. "And if he hurts you-".
"I'll survive," you cut it off, softly. "But he won't. Not if he wants to keep you".
Ollie snorted under his breath. Sasha shot him a look
"Don't push it," Sasha warned, then stepped back, uncrossing his arms. "Just… don't make me regret trusting either of you".
He walked away before either of you could respond.
You stood there for a second, stunned.
Then Ollie looked at you, breath shaky, relief and fear tangled in his eyes. "Well, that went better than expected".
You laughed softly, leaning into him. "Don't get cocky".
He smiled, "Never, I wouldn't dare to risk that after all".
Because, despite every arrow that missed its mark, the right one had been closer than you ever dared to believe.
Cupid may have fooled you many times, but this time, he got it right.
