STEP CLOSER, MY STEP BROTHER
Mark stepped inside without waiting for permission.
The second the door shut, the kitchen warmth felt like it had been drained out of the apartment.
> “You’ve been busy,” he said casually, glancing around like he was appraising the walls. “Cooking. Playing house. Pretending you’re free.”
I crossed my arms. “If you came here to lecture me, save it. I’m not in the mood.”
He smiled faintly—just enough to show he knew exactly where my breaking points were.
> “If you weren’t in the mood, you’d have slammed the door in my face. No, son… you’re curious. You want to know why I’m here.”