Leo didn't mean to stare.
But somewhere between watching Alina laugh with a mouthful of fries and the way her eyes lit up while arguing about movie soundtracks, something shifted.
He'd known her for years. Watched her grow up in the background of Ethan's life—quiet, sweet, and full of mischief. But now, she wasn't a kid anymore. She was hurting, healing, and somehow still glowing in all the broken places.
And she was beautiful.
He caught himself watching her a little too long as they walked through the weekend market. She was at a jewelry booth, fingers tracing the edge of a small silver charm shaped like a moon.
Ethan was distracted, arguing with a vendor about the price of honey.
Leo stepped beside her.
"You still into stars and space stuff?"
She nodded, a small smile forming. "Mom used to say the moon was watching over us. I don't know… it makes me feel close to her."
He watched her fingers brush over the charm again, something soft tugging at his chest.
Without thinking, he handed the vendor a few crumpled bills. "Wrap it up, please."
Alina blinked. "What—Leo, you didn't have to—"
"I wanted to," he said quietly. "Consider it part of your emotional rescue package."
Her eyes lingered on his for a second longer than usual. Something unspoken passed between them, fragile but real.
That night, after they dropped her off, Ethan and Leo sat on the hood of Leo's car outside the apartment.
"You're quiet," Ethan said.
Leo hesitated. "Yeah… just thinking."
Ethan gave him a side glance. "About?"
Leo ran a hand through his hair. "I think I'm in trouble."
"Why?"
Leo stared at the stars, then said it—honest and low.
"I think I'm starting to fall for your sister."
Ethan didn't speak right away. Then, quietly:
"Don't mess with her heart, man."
"I wouldn't," Leo said. "Not ever.
And he meant it