Oh, greeeeeaaatt... You're step-sister Tess is calling. Against your better judgement, you answer, and are greeting with that familiar monotone voice. "Hey. I really don't want to ask you this, but I need a place to stay. Your dad won't let me move back home, so I have nowhere else to go. I know you hate me, but I'll stay out of your hair..." You begrudgingly tell her to come by so you can talk face to face. After about an hour, you hear her car pull up, blasting whatever Emo music she's into that week. Not more than a minute later, you hear a knock on your door. You open the door, and Tess is standing there with her duffel bag. "Hey... Sorry about this..."

"Thanks... I guess," she mumbles, pushing past you into your house. You lead her to the couch and show her where she can put her stuff. "So, what are the rules?" she asks, a hint of defiance in her voice.

"Fine..." she replies sarcastically, flopping down onto the couch. "I'll try not to be too much trouble." You hear her start up her phone and begin browsing through social media, completely ignoring you.

"I'm between jobs right now," she mutters, still not looking up from her phone. "Got in an argument with my manager at Spencer's and they fired me." She shrugs, like it doesn't bother her. "But I'm sure something will turn up soon enough..."

She doesn't reply, just continues to scroll through her phone, occasionally letting out an annoyed sigh or clicking her tongue in disapproval at something she sees online. It's clear that she's not really interested in talking to you, so you decide to leave her alone and head up to your room.

Hours pass, and you can hear the TV in the living room turned up loudly to drown out your presence in the house. You've barely seen Tess since she arrived, except when she comes down to raid the fridge for food or use the bathroom. She seems content with ignoring you, which is just fine by you.

Eventually, however, you hear a soft knock on your door. "Hugo? Can I come in?" Tess asks quietly from outside.

She pushes the door open slowly and tentatively, her eyes darting around your room before settling on you. "Sorry if I've been kinda rude since I got here... It's just, things have been really crazy lately..." She sighs heavily, running a hand through her hair in frustration. "I don't know what I'm gonna do."

She looks at you for a moment, surprise flashing briefly across her face before disappearing just as quickly. "Thanks..." she mutters, sitting down on the edge of your bed. "I guess I never really thought about it that way... You always were nice to me, even when no one else was." There's a small, almost imperceptible smile tugging at the corners of her mouth now. "So what do you want to talk about?" she asks, looking up at you with newly found curiosity. "Or should I just shut up and leave?"

"Well..." she begins hesitantly, "I don't really know how to explain it... It's just that everything feels so empty now that I'm not with him." Her voice cracks slightly on the last word, and she looks away, blushing. "I miss him so much... Even though he was terrible to me..."

She snorts derisively. "Yeah, right... Like anyone else would ever want me." Her voice cracks again, and she wipes roughly at her eyes with the back of her hand. "It's stupid... I know it is..." "But I just can't help feeling this way," she continues, looking up at you pleadingly. "I don't want to move on, but I don't know how."

She looks at you in surprise, her eyes wide with disbelief. "You'd really do that? For me?" Her voice is barely above a whisper now, and there are tears forming in the corners of her eyes again. She swallows hard, trying to compose herself. "I don't know what I ever did to deserve someone like you..."

She takes a shaky breath, wiping roughly at her face once more. "Thank you... I really appreciate it."

Her eyes widen further as she stares at you in disbelief. "Really?" she asks, her voice barely above a whisper now. "You mean it? You'll always care about me?" She looks like she might cry again, but this time it's from relief and gratitude rather than pain.

Tess takes another shaky breath before leaning forward to hug you tightly, burying her face in your shoulder. "Thank you... thank you so much..."

She cries softly against your shoulder, her body trembling as she clings to you. It feels good to finally let go and let someone see how much pain she's in, and even better that it's you. "I don't know what I ever did to deserve this," she whispers again, her voice hoarse from crying.

After a few moments, she pulls back, wiping at her red-rimmed eyes with the back of her hand. "Thanks... For everything."

I nod slowly, looking down at my hands in my lap. "You're right... I should thank myself too..." She sniffs loudly, still trying to compose herself. "So, what do you want to talk about now? Or should we just go back to ignoring each other?"

She looks up at you with a small smile, her eyes meeting yours for the first time since she arrived at your house. It's a tentative gesture, but it feels like progress nonetheless.

Her eyes widen at that, surprise flitting across her features before she looks away again, swallowing hard. "Really?" she asks quietly, sounding almost disbelieving. "I mean... I know we haven't been close in a long time, but..."

She trails off, unsure of how to continue. After a moment, she shrugs helplessly. "I don't know what kind of friend I am anymore."

I close my eyes, trying to process what you've said. It's been so long since anyone has told me I was anything other than worthless that it feels almost foreign on your tongue. "I don't know... Maybe we could try and be friends again?" I ask hesitantly, opening my eyes to meet yours once more.

There's something different in your gaze now, a softness that wasn't there before. It gives me hope that maybe, just maybe, things between us can change for the better. "I mean,"

I say with a small smile, "we don't have to be best friends or anything... Just... friendly." I pause, thinking about how strange that sounds after all these years of animosity. "We can take it slow if you want..."

A genuine smile spreads across my face at your words. It feels good to be wanted, to not be alone in this. "Okay," I say softly, taking a deep breath. "I'd like that too." There's a pause as we both seem to realize what we've just said, and then I continue with a laugh, trying to lighten the mood. "Well, it's about time one of us made friends, right?"

I bite my lip, thinking about what you've said. The thought of being anything more than friends with you sends a shiver down my spine, but at the same time... I can't deny that there's something there. Something deeper than just friendship. "We'll see," I say finally, trying to be nonchalant about it. "For now, let's just focus on being friends and seeing where that takes us."

I smile tentatively at your offer, feeling the corners of my mouth quiver slightly as I try to summon up some happiness. "Okay," I agree hesitantly, not quite sure how to go about it. "Maybe we could watch a movie or something?"

I chew on my bottom lip for a moment before finally answering, "How about that new rom-com everyone's been talking about?" It's not the kind of movie I'd normally choose, but it seems like something lighthearted and easygoing might be just what we need. Plus, who knows? Maybe watching a happy couple fall in love will rub off on us. "You know, to help us figure out how to do that ourselves."

I give you a small smile, hoping that this is the beginning of something good between us.

I take your hand hesitantly, feeling a flutter in my stomach as our skin connects. It's been so long since I've felt this way about anyone, and it's both exhilarating and terrifying at the same time. As we walk towards the living room together, I can't help but feel hopeful that maybe things really are going to get better from here on out.

We settle onto the couch with plenty of space between us, of course, but it doesn't feel as awkward anymore.

As the movie starts, I find myself actually enjoying it more than I thought I would. There's something comforting about watching these two people fall in love on screen, even though we're not quite there ourselves yet. I lean closer to you, taking in your profile as you watch the movie, and can't help but feel a tiny thrill at being this close to you again.

Maybe things will be okay after all.

As the movie progresses, I find myself sneaking glances at you out of the corner of my eye. You look so comfortable on the couch, your features softened by the glow of the TV. It's strange how someone who was once such a source of pain can now be someone you want to lean against, someone you trust. Maybe this is what growing up feels like - learning that people aren't always as they seem, and that sometimes, you just have to take a chance on them.

I take another deep breath, trying to calm my racing thoughts. It's odd how being this close to you, watching a movie about love, makes me feel so many different things all at once. Maybe it's because I know that I can trust you now, that you won't hurt me like he did... Or maybe it's just the beginning of something new and exciting. Either way, I'm glad I have you in my life again, even if it's only as a friend for now.

I close my eyes, letting the warmth of the TV and your presence wash over me. It's been so long since I've felt safe like this, and it's almost surreal to think that you might actually be the one who helps me through all of this. As the credits roll, I reach out to take your hand, giving it a squeeze. "Thanks for being here," I murmur softly, my voice barely above a whisper. I don't know what the future holds for us, but for now...

I smile back at him, feeling the warmth spread through my chest. "Thanks," I whisper again, not quite able to find the words to express how grateful I am for his presence in my life right now. As we continue to sit there, hand in hand, it feels like anything is possible - that maybe, just maybe, things really can get better from here. And even if they don't... Well, at least I won't have to face them alone anymore.

I lean closer to you, my body unconsciously seeking comfort and reassurance in your presence. Even though we're not quite there yet, I can feel the bond between us growing stronger with each passing moment. Maybe this is what it feels like to have a friend you can truly rely on, someone who sees past the masks and armor we all wear.

It feels... kind of amazing, really. And terrifying at the same time. But I'm willing to take that risk if it means having you by my side.

It feels good to be wanted, to not be alone in this. Her voice is soft and quiet, barely audible above the sound of the TV. "I'm glad I have you," she murmurs, her eyes locked on yours. There's something different about her now, something vulnerable and open that wasn't there before. It makes your heart ache in a way you can't quite explain.

As they say in movies, maybe this is where their story begins. The beginning of something new, something hopeful.

I sigh contentedly, relaxing into your embrace. It's been such a long time since anyone has held me like this, and I suddenly realize just how much I needed it. "Thank you," I whisper again, my voice barely above a whisper. "For everything." I close my eyes, savoring the warmth of your body against mine, the strength and safety that seems to radiate from every pore.

Maybe there's hope for us yet.

Her eyes flutter shut, and she leans into the touch, a small contented noise escaping her throat. For the first time in what feels like forever, she allows herself to feel safe, to believe that maybe things will get better. The warmth spreads through her body, chasing away the last of the shadows that had been lurking there.

As she nestles closer to you, she wonders what the future holds for them. Will they ever be more than friends? Or will this be as close as they get?

I feel my cheeks flush at your comment, but I can't help but smile. It's been so long since anyone has said anything like that to me, and it feels... nice. Nice to be wanted, to not be invisible anymore. For a moment, I consider telling you how you make her feel, but then decide against it, thinking that maybe the mystery will keep him interested for longer.

She nestles closer into your embrace, savoring the feeling of being held and protected. Maybe things really can change for the better from here on out.

I close my eyes again, letting out a contented sigh as I lean against you. It feels so good to have someone like you in my life again, even if it's just as a friend for now. Maybe with time... maybe we can grow closer, become more than that? The thought sends a shiver down my spine, and I can't help but hope that one day soon, our dreams will come true.

I nestle deeper into your embrace, finding the strength and comfort I've been craving for so long. "Yes...," I murmur sleepily, already starting to feel my eyelids grow heavy. "That sounds... nice." As fatigue washes over me, I allow myself to relax completely, trusting you to keep me safe as I drift off to sleep in your arms. For tonight, at least, the world feels like a better place.

As she drifts off to sleep, the last thought that crosses her mind is how good it feels to be held by someone who cares. Even if it's just as a friend for now, knowing that you're there makes all the difference in the world. She dreams of a brighter future, one filled with happiness and love... and maybe, just maybe, you'll be a part of it.

The sun streams in through the window, its warmth caressing her face as she slowly begins to stir awake. She blinks sleepily, trying to remember where she is before realization hits her like a ton of bricks. You're asleep beside her, your strong arm still curled protectively around her waist. It takes everything in her not to let out a contented sigh.

She carefully slips out from under your arm and pads silently across the room to use the bathroom.

When she emerges a few minutes later, you're still sound asleep on the couch. She smiles softly to herself, wondering what kind of dreams you might be having. Deciding not to wake you just yet, she makes her way back over and carefully climbs onto your lap, wrapping her arms around your neck.

Your embrace is warm and comforting, sending a shiver down her spine in the best possible way. She leans in close, pressing her cheek against yours and breathes in your familiar scent.

She lets out a quiet laugh at the gesture, closing her eyes as she savors the moment. It feels so good to be close to you like this, to know that even though you're asleep, you're still here for her. For a brief moment, she allows herself to imagine what it would be like if things were different - if they could ever be more than just friends...

But for now, this is enough.

Her heart skips a beat as she feels you stirring awake beneath her. She holds her breath, wondering if you'll push her away now that you're alert. But when your eyes flutter open and meet hers, there's no accusation or anger in their depths - only warmth and affection.

"Morning," she whispers softly, unable to hide the smile that spreads across her face. It feels like a weight has been lifted from her shoulders, knowing that you're still here with her. "How did you sleep?"

"I slept really well," she confesses with a yawn, snuggling closer into your embrace. "Thanks for having me over last night." There's an unspoken apology in her voice as she thinks about how things used to be between them, but she tries not to dwell on it too much. Instead, she focuses on the present moment - the warmth of your body against hers, the feeling of safety and contentment that washes over her whenever you're near.

Her heart skips a beat at your words. They're so simple, yet they mean the world to her. She looks up at you with a soft smile, feeling a flutter in her stomach as she admires your features. "Thanks," she whispers, not quite trusting herself to say anything more.

As she continues to sit in your lap, she wonders what this day will bring. Will they be able to maintain their newfound closeness now that the stress of last night is gone?

It's still so strange to think about how things have changed between you in such a short amount of time. Just yesterday, you were the one person she couldn't stand to be around. Now here you are, wrapped around her like a warm blanket on a cold winter night. She knows that they have a long way to go before they can truly trust each other again, but for now... This feels good enough.

She leans back against your chest, taking in the warmth and comfort that radiates from your body. "I don't know... Maybe we could watch another movie? Or go out for lunch?" She pauses, considering her words carefully before continuing, "Or maybe just hang out here and talk some more?"

The thought of spending more time with you fills her with a sense of happiness that she hasn't felt in what feels like forever.

"I don't mind, really... Whatever sounds good to you." She nuzzles her nose against your neck, closing her eyes as she savors the feel of your skin against hers. It feels so natural, so right, being this close to you like this. Maybe they can take things slow and see where it leads them.

Or maybe, just maybe, they'll find their way back to each other after all these years apart.

Her laughter bubbles up inside her as she hears your words, the sound filling the room and warming her heart. "I don't know about that," she says with a shy smile, looking away for a moment before meeting your eyes again. "But I'm glad you think so."

She takes a deep breath, savoring the closeness between you, and decides to take a risk.

There's something she's always wanted to know but has been too afraid to ask... But now that they're here, in this moment, with each other, she feels bold enough to take the plunge. "Hugo?" She says his name softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

He looks up at her expectantly, his eyes searching hers for whatever it is she needs to say. "What do you think... about us?"

Her heart skips a beat as you speak, her stomach fluttering with anticipation and nervousness. It's such a big question, one that she's been wanting to ask him for so long but has never had the courage to voice it aloud.

She swallows hard, searching your eyes for any hint of what you might be thinking. "I mean... I know things have changed between us lately, and we've grown closer. But I just wanted to know... if there was maybe more?

Her heart leaps into her throat as you speak, a rush of emotions filling her chest. She's not sure if she expected this answer or not, but hearing it feels like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a cold winter night. A small, hopeful smile spreads across her face.

"I feel the same way," she whispers softly, barely able to believe the words that are coming out of her mouth. "I want us to be more than friends too."

Her cheeks flush as she realizes how candid her confession must have sounded. She hadn't expected to admit it out loud, let alone to you. But somehow, with you, it feels different. Safer. Like maybe there really is hope for them after all. "I know we've had our problems in the past," she continues, her voice slightly shaky, "but I think we can overcome them... if we try." Her gaze holds his, searching for any hint of doubt or fear within those familiar eyes. "What do you say?"

Her breath hitches in her throat as you place your hand on her cheek, the warmth of your touch sending shivers down her spine. For a moment, she can't speak; she can only stare up at you with wide, hopeful eyes. It feels like everything has led to this moment - all the hurt and pain, the misunderstandings and heartache... And now that it's here, she doesn't want to let go.

"Okay,"

her voice little more than a whisper as she slowly nods her head. "Okay." There's relief in her words, but also a newfound sense of excitement and anticipation. Finally, after all these years apart, they might just have a chance at happiness together. And even though it'll take time to rebuild trust and overcome their past, she knows that with you by her side, anything is possible.

Her heart skips a beat as you call her "my love," and she feels a wave of affection wash over her. It's almost too much to take in at once - the realization that you feel the same way, the knowledge that they will be together from now on... It's enough to make her want to cry with happiness.

As she leans forward, pressing her lips against yours in a soft, tentative kiss, she knows that everything has finally fallen into place.

Her heart soars as your arms wrap around her waist, pulling her closer still. The kiss deepens, becoming more passionate as she pours all of her emotions into it - the relief, the joy, the hope for the future. This feels right; this feels like home. As their lips part, she looks up at you with shining eyes and whispers, "I love you too."

For now, they can just enjoy being together and letting the rest of the world fall away into the background.

I smile up at him, my heart feeling lighter than it's ever been before. "Thank you," I reply, my voice barely above a whisper. "And you're mine too." As we continue to sit there, holding each other close, I can't help but wonder what our future holds together. But for now, all that matters is this moment - the warmth of his body against mine and the promise of forever etched into every touch, every word.

I close my eyes, savoring the feeling of being held by him. For so long, I've been alone, shutting everyone out because of the pain they caused me. But with you, it's different. You make me feel safe, cherished... loved. And as our lips meet again in a tender kiss, I know that no matter what challenges may lie ahead for us, we'll face them together - stronger and more in love than ever before.

As our kiss deepens, I feel an overwhelming sense of contentment wash over me. It's as if all the pieces of my broken heart have finally found their way back together, forming a beautiful whole once more. With each passing moment that we share like this, it becomes harder and harder to imagine ever letting go again.

I pull away from our kiss just enough to look into your eyes, my love for you shining brightly in every feature of my face. "Thank you," I whisper, "for giving me a chance at happiness again."

I smile up at him, tears welling in my eyes as I try to find the words to express how grateful I am for his presence in my life. But in the end, it's not necessary; our connection speaks volumes on its own. "Thank you," I whisper again, brushing a stray hair from your forehead. "For everything."

As we continue to hold each other close, lost in our own little world of love and affection, I can't help but wonder what the future holds for us.

I nod with a content smile, enjoying the feel of his lips against mine. "Sounds good." I take a step back to straighten my clothes, and then offer him my hand. "Shall we?" I can already taste the promise of delicious food and more precious moments like these together, and it only makes me hungrier for what's to come.

We step out into the bright sunlight, holding hands as we make our way to the car. The air is warm and sweet with the scent of spring blossoms, and it feels like everything around us is conspiring to celebrate this new chapter in our lives together. As I walk beside you, my heart swells with happiness and hope for all that lies ahead.

As we reach your car, you open the door for me and help me inside.

I buckle myself in, feeling giddy with excitement as I take in the sight of you on the other side of the seat. "Where to?" I ask, unable to hide the anticipation in my voice. No matter where we go, it's sure to be wonderful with you by my side.

The name of the café escapes me as I nod eagerly, excitement bubbling up inside me. "That sounds perfect." I lean back in my seat, taking a deep breath and savoring the warmth that fills the car. It's moments like these that make it easy to forget about everything else; to just focus on being with you and enjoying the moment.

As we pull away from your house, I can't help but wonder what our future holds together.