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00:31Chase and I had been together in secret for six months.
00:34He was the star quarterback everyone watched.
00:37But I could never call him my boyfriend in public.
00:40This morning, a naked photo of me tore across the whole school.
00:44In it, my neck and collarbone were covered in hickeys, my eyes glassy.
00:48Within one class period, it jumped from group chat to group chat.
00:52The comments kept guessing who was on top of me.
00:55A guy or a girl?
00:57A photo like that could only come from our private nights.
01:00One thought filled my head.
01:02Find him.
01:02I grabbed my coat and went to make Chase explain.
01:05I found him on the homecoming sideline.
01:08My sister Daisy was hanging off his arm.
01:11She rose on her toes and handed Chase an ice-cold water.
01:15Chase didn't drink it.
01:17He pressed the cold bottle to her cheek.
01:19Cooler now?
01:20He spoiled her in front of everyone.
01:22To everyone watching, they were the school's official couple.
01:29The second I pushed into the crowd, every eye locked on me.
01:33People elbowed their friends and pointed at me.
01:35That's him.
01:36The guy in that photo.
01:39They laughed and raised their phones at me.
01:41Chase raised his arm and his collar slipped open.
01:44Near his collarbone, a deep hickey showed.
01:47I'd left that hickey last night.
01:49He'd pinned me behind the dorm suite door, kissing me breathless.
01:53I bit down on his neck.
01:56A cheer teammate spotted the hickey first and laughed out loud.
02:00Daisy, you went hard last night, huh?
02:03The circle around them broke into laughter.
02:06Daisy was the most adored cheer captain in school.
02:09She froze for a second.
02:11Then she smiled and tugged Chase's collar back up.
02:15Chase saw me, standing a few steps away.
02:18He casually pulled Daisy into his arms.
02:21Only then did Daisy pretend to notice me.
02:24In front of everyone, she took Chase's arm and smiled sweetly.
02:28Stop spreading it, please.
02:29The guy in the photo is my brother.
02:32He likes guys.
02:33There's nothing to hide.
02:35I've always supported him.
02:36Just don't use a photo like this to hurt him, okay?
02:40Before I could speak, she confirmed it all for me.
02:45Everyone turned to me, whispering.
02:50Chase never once looked at me.
02:52He just picked up where Daisy left off.
02:55Good thing he plays hockey.
02:56In my locker room, I'd feel dirty just changing.
03:02A few football players turned to me.
03:05Someone laughed and whistled.
03:08Wrong sideline, hockey boy.
03:10We all saw the photo.
03:12Didn't know you were so wild.
03:15Another one looked pointedly at Chase.
03:17Careful, QB.
03:17He hasn't set his sights on you, has he?
03:20More phones went up.
03:22The camera swung from Chase and Daisy to my face.
03:25They wanted to post me on the campus account too.
03:27That was when my teammate Finn stepped up beside me.
03:30He moved half a step, blocking the nearest camera with his shoulder.
03:34Asher, the team needs you back.
03:37Thanks.
03:41That night, Chase didn't get back until almost nine.
03:44The door shut, and it was just the two of us.
03:48I thought he'd finally explain the photo, but he didn't say a word about it.
03:54He pinned me to the door and leaned in to kiss me.
03:57Don't make a thing out of today.
04:01I want you right now.
04:02His hand was already up under my shirt.
04:05I'm sorry, you.
04:06I tried to ask about the photo, but he cut me off.
04:16He yanked my clothes off and flipped me onto the bed.
04:19There was no hesitation when he pushed in.
04:22He drove into me until I couldn't get a full word out.
04:25Then his phone lit up.
04:26He freed one hand and grabbed it for a look.
04:29It was Daisy calling.
04:30He didn't stop, just clamped a hand over my mouth.
04:33He picked up, not a trace of it in his voice.
04:37What's up, babe?
04:38Why are you still awake?
04:39While he soothed her, he drove into me a few more times.
04:42Pinned down, I had to hide every breath.
04:46Before he hung up, he murmured one more thing to her.
04:49Get some sleep.
04:49I love you too.
04:56Once the call ended, he slowly pulled out of me.
04:59He wiped his hands with a tissue, his face unchanged.
05:03I propped myself up, my voice still shaking.
05:06Did that photo come off your phone?
05:10No one else has a photo like that.
05:12He didn't give me a straight answer.
05:14How it got out doesn't matter.
05:16Get this straight.
05:17Don't go digging it up to cause a scene.
05:19No one finds out this has anything to do with me.
05:21And don't embarrass Daisy or wreck my name.
05:25Keep pushing this and we're done.
05:27His hands buttoned his chert without a flicker of panic.
05:30I looked at him and almost laughed.
05:32Sure.
05:34Then we're done.
05:35We break up.
05:36Chase didn't take the word seriously at all.
05:38He let out a low laugh and grabbed his jacket off the chair.
05:41Come on.
05:42That photo just has you worked up.
05:44Cool off and clean up your own mess.
05:46I'm going to check on Daisy.
05:47She sounded off on the phone.
05:50He opened the door and left without looking back.
05:53A few days passed after the breakup.
05:56I was in the library, rushing something due the next day.
05:59Daisy called me.
06:03The second I answered, she was crying.
06:06Bro, can you come get me?
06:07Chase and I fought.
06:09He left me at a football after party.
06:12I don't know anyone here.
06:14Some drunk guy won't leave me alone.
06:16I'm scared to move.
06:18I forgot the assignment, grabbed my coat, and ran out.
06:24The party was at a house off campus.
06:27Inside, it was dim, packed, reeking of booze.
06:31Daisy!
06:32I pushed in, calling her name, but the base drowned me out.
06:36I searched every room I could reach, but found no Daisy.
06:39A drunk guy looked me up and down and laughed.
06:41Oh, you're Daisy's gay brother, right?
06:44A few guys around him joined in, laughed.
06:47Called you to clean up her mess again?
06:48One word from Daisy and the gay brother comes running.
06:51Honestly, come around more.
06:52Maybe someone here wants your ass.
06:56Please.
06:57No one would ever invite him.
07:00I flinched back, rattled.
07:02Someone shoved a red solo cup into my hand.
07:05Have a drink.
07:07Don't be such a Buzzville.
07:08I pushed it back, and the drink splashed my sleeve.
07:12Another guy grabbed my arm and dragged me inward.
07:16I yanked free, and his grip left a red mark on my wrist.
07:20With everything I had, I shoved through the crowd to the side door.
07:27Outside, a row of rideshare cars waited in the driveway.
07:31The night air hit me, and I realized I was sweating.
07:37I walked to the rideshare pickup and called Daisy.
07:40She picked up.
07:41I heard car sounds and soft music.
07:43Daisy's voice was sweet and easy.
07:46The crying was completely gone.
07:48Asher?
07:48Oh, sorry.
07:49I forgot to tell you.
07:50I already got picked up.
07:51Chase came and saved me ten minutes ago.
07:53Did you go to the party looking for me?
07:54That place is awful.
07:55Want Chase to come get you too?
07:56Before I could answer, I heard Chase beside her.
07:59That's the athlete crowd.
08:00The whole room is straight guys.
08:02No one wants a gay guy.
08:03What could happen to him?
08:04Just let him call his own ride home.
08:08On the other end, they both laughed.
08:13On the line, the two of them rode back, warm and laughing.
08:17I stood alone at the empty pickup, phone in hand, frozen.
08:21I got my words out before Daisy could speak again.
08:23No need.
08:24I'll get myself home.
08:25As long as you're okay.
08:26I hung up and called my own car.
08:29Back at the dorm, I took a hot shower.
08:31When I came out, Chase was there.
08:34Lately, he rarely came to this suite.
08:36He mostly stayed at Daisy's.
08:38On my desk sat an electrolyte drink and a pack of Advil.
08:41Chase leaned on the doorframe and looked up at the sound.
08:44Daisy asked me to drop some things off.
08:46I walked over and picked up the bottle.
08:48He spoke first.
08:50At the party, you didn't mention us, right?
08:53Not a word in front of my teammates, right?
08:55Then he stepped close, his nose almost at my collar.
08:59You reek of booze.
09:00Who poured you drinks?
09:02Who touched you?
09:03Who'd you hook up with?
09:04He grabbed my wrist, staring at the red mark someone left.
09:07I pried his fingers off and stepped back.
09:10Asher, I'm asking you a question.
09:12As Daisy's boyfriend?
09:15He stared at me for several seconds.
09:18On his way out, he tossed back one line.
09:21Stop causing Daisy trouble.
09:25After that, I avoided Chase and Daisy as much as I could.
09:29But lately, Daisy suddenly latched onto me.
09:32At dinner that day, most of the table was Chase's team.
09:36I sat across from them.
09:40Chase wiped sauce from Daisy's lip.
09:42Easy and practiced.
09:43He took the last bite off her plate and ate it.
09:47Daisy smacked his hand, smiling, not really annoyed.
09:50From the moment I sat, they hadn't looked at me once.
09:54Daisy propped her chin and sighed on purpose.
09:56Chase, you've got a whole team.
09:58Set my brother up with someone?
10:00He's gay and single forever.
10:01As his sister, I worry for him.
10:05She smiled around at Chase's teammates, putting my dating life on display.
10:10A few teammates burst out laughing.
10:13Nope.
10:14Not me.
10:15Don't make it weird, bro.
10:16Not enough to stare at on the hockey side?
10:18Keep that kind of thing on your hockey side.
10:28Only then did Chase look up at his teammates.
10:30What's wrong with you?
10:31You have to say this at dinner?
10:32The teammates shut up, looking sullen.
10:35I was surprised.
10:37Chase actually spoke up for me?
10:39Then Chase turned on me, irritated.
10:41Besides Asher, no one invited you to this dinner.
10:44Why do you keep clinging like this?
10:46Does it feel good hearing them mock you?
10:48Cheap, sick taste.
10:50Daisy jumped in, looking heartbroken for me.
10:52Don't talk to him like that.
10:53I asked him here.
10:54He's always alone.
10:55The hockey guys don't really include him.
10:57I just wanted him out for a meal, to meet new people.
10:59With those words, she made me sound pathetic.
11:01A reject living on my sister's pity.
11:03Chase tilted his head, his eyes full of indulgent for Daisy.
11:09Daisy's too soft.
11:10Always helping people who aren't worth it.
11:12Only then did he turn back to me.
11:13Don't be ungrateful.
11:15Daisy is helping you.
11:16Don't twist politeness either.
11:17Not every straight guy wants your eyes on him.
11:19Good thing you play hockey.
11:20My guys don't want to guard against you.
11:22In this circle, you'd better learn some boundaries.
11:26I shoved my silverware aside and stood up.
11:29Every eye at the table landed on me.
11:31I looked at Daisy first.
11:33You don't care about me.
11:34You put my private life on this table for them.
11:36I turned back to Chase and smiled.
11:39Guard against me?
11:40Every Friday, ten of you slap asses in a sweaty locker room.
11:43And you guard against me?
11:44I don't need to learn boundaries.
11:46Tonight I won't think of you.
11:47But you'll think of me.
11:48Bye, real men.
11:53With that, I turned and left the table.
11:57Behind me, the whole table went silent.
12:00Daisy's wounded act finally cracked.
12:03Chase's jaw tightened, his face hard.
12:06A few days later, I left the library.
12:10Chase blocked me on the steps.
12:12I didn't want to tangle with him.
12:15My hockey captain, Finn, stood right there.
12:19On the hockey side, everyone watched Finn.
12:22He pulled as much weight as Chase.
12:24A guy like that should draw rumors.
12:27He didn't.
12:28Zoe was always with him, a cheer girl and old friend.
12:31People never corrected it, so they assumed they dated.
12:34These became the most visible steps on campus.
12:37Everyone passing by looked over.
12:41Two years as teammates, we barely talked off the ice.
12:45Chase and Finn knew each other better.
12:47To Chase, Finn was a safe, straight guy.
12:50With a smirk, Chase pushed Finn toward me.
12:53Let me introduce my best-looking buddy, Finn.
12:56You two know each other.
12:58He's on your own team.
12:59Too bad he's straight.
13:00Isn't this your thing?
13:02Try turning him.
13:03His voice was pitched just loud enough for the steps to hear.
13:05A few people stopped to watch, waiting for me to crumble.
13:08Then he leaned down to my ear.
13:10His voice dropped so only we could hear.
13:12Snapping at me in public?
13:14You just still like me.
13:16Apologize now, Asher, and I might forgive you.
13:19More eyes turned, and the muttering grew.
13:21Finn was my captain.
13:22I didn't want the team to reject me, too.
13:24My throat went tight, and my fingers gripped the phone in my pocket.
13:27Finn acted like he didn't notice the standoff.
13:29He walked over and opened IG to add me.
13:32Want a date?
13:32Then add me on IG.
13:36I thought I misheard and stared at him in disbelief.
13:39Chase turned, too, frowning at him.
13:40Finn, are you insane?
13:42Aren't you with Zoe?
13:43Finn didn't even look up.
13:44She'd laugh herself sick hearing you say that.
13:47Besides, don't you keep calling yourself straight?
13:49Then why did I hear you kissed a guy?
13:51Chase's face went tight.
13:52He stared me down, waiting for me to panic and flinch.
13:55I glanced at Finn.
13:56I remembered the sideline, how he stepped between me and the camera.
14:00Finn was a good captain, and he was bailing me out.
14:02I took out my phone and found Finn's profile.
14:05I'm in.
14:06Just as I went to follow, a hand covered my screen.
14:10I looked up and met Chase's eyes.
14:12His face still wore that calm look, but the hand on my screen was pressing hard.
14:18Don't do this out of spite.
14:20Finn let out a scoff.
14:21What's your problem, Chase?
14:22You introduced us, now you stop us?
14:24Chase looked cornered, but ignored him and stared at me.
14:27Think hard, Ashen.
14:28I won't warn you twice.
14:29You know what dating your own captain costs?
14:32I didn't look at him again.
14:33I brushed his hand off my screen and tapped follow.
14:36On Finn's end, it went through instantly.
14:39Chase stepped back and put his cool mask on again.
14:42Fine.
14:43I'll be watching.
14:45Let's see how long this sloppy romance lasts.
14:52Once Chase left, I finally breathed.
14:54I turned to thank Finn.
14:56Thanks for playing along and bailing me out.
14:58Don't worry, I won't cling to you.
14:59If it's a hassle, you can unfollow me now.
15:01As I finished, Finn was already tapping at his phone.
15:04He turned the screen to show me.
15:06He'd just changed his IG bio to a single line.
15:09It said he was just dumped.
15:10First love dead in 10 minutes.
15:12Wait, what is this supposed to mean?
15:14What, 10 minutes in and you're dumping me already?
15:17For once, I was stuck for words.
15:19Aren't you straight?
15:20Finn dropped the careless act and turned serious.
15:23I've never officially dated anyone, but I never said I was straight.
15:26You all just assumed it.
15:27Why?
15:27I'm serious, but you use me as a shield.
15:30I like you, so call me dumped.
15:32He said it and made to leave.
15:34I grabbed him on reflex.
15:37No, that's not what I meant.
15:39Finn turned back and looked at me.
15:41So, you're not dumping me?
15:44Before it fully registered, I found myself nodding.
15:47He changed the bio back.
15:49Easy and lazy again.
15:51Then we're good.
15:52Come on, practice.
15:53He suddenly held out his hand.
15:55Huh?
15:56For a moment, I didn't get it.
15:57We're dating.
15:58Can I hold your hand?
15:59I froze, remembering the early days with Chase.
16:02Back then, I tried to hold his hand too, but he slipped away without a flicker, smiling
16:06thinly.
16:07Don't, Asher.
16:08Two grown men holding hands is weird.
16:10Aren't you embarrassed?
16:11I came back to the moment and almost pulled away again.
16:14But if people see us?
16:15And so what if they see?
16:16He cut me off, took my hand, and laced our fingers.
16:19Without looking back, he pulled me forward.
16:21Be confident, Asher.
16:22No one gets to judge us, or you.
16:25His hand was steady on mine, with no intention of letting go.
16:29He held my hand down the whole hallway, out to the rink corridor.
16:33A few of the guys were there.
16:37Nice.
16:38You finally did it?
16:41Seeing us linked, they whistled, and one clapped Finn's shoulder.
16:45Zoe was there too.
16:46She grinned and gave us a thumbs up.
16:48She bumped Finn's arm.
16:50I'm finally free.
16:51No more covering for your gossip.
16:53And no one will think I'm your girlfriend anymore.
16:55Finn smiled.
16:56Never letting go of my hand.
16:58I stared at the side of his face.
17:00As he pulled me along, my steady heartbeat skipped.
17:05Word that Finn and I held hands reached Daisy fast.
17:09The moment she heard I was dating, she booked a restaurant table.
17:13Then she sent the address, forcing me to bring Finn.
17:16She left me no room to say no.
17:18But this time, I didn't come alone.
17:20The second she saw Finn, Daisy's smile slipped.
17:23Finn, you're really my brother's boyfriend?
17:26Finn pulled out my chair, before sitting himself.
17:29What else?
17:30You told him to bring a boyfriend.
17:32So here I am.
17:33Daisy flipped through the menu and forced her smile back.
17:36No one had touched the appetizers on the table.
17:38I didn't mean that.
17:40I just don't want Finn uncomfortable.
17:41Did my brother pest you until you couldn't say no?
17:43She looked innocent, but the words were aimed at Chase.
17:46Chase straightened his cutlery and scoffered along.
17:49Daisy wouldn't quit.
17:50She propped her chin and looked at Finn.
17:51So Finn, what do you even see in my brother?
17:54So many pretty girls here.
17:55Why pick him?
17:56Finn looked at her steadily for a few seconds.
17:58Then he turned lazily towards Chase.
18:00And you, Chase, what do you see in Daisy?
18:02Are there no other girls in the world?
18:04That shut Daisy up on the spot.
18:06Her face flushed red and no words came.
18:08Finn gave her no out and added one more.
18:10You can twist your brother, but can't take it back the same way?
18:16Chase set down his cutlery with a small clink.
18:19He lowered his voice with a hint of warning.
18:22Daisy has a point.
18:23Are you two done?
18:24Finn, stop faking a couple.
18:26You sit there as polite as strangers.
18:28Honestly, it looks more like Ash grabbed someone to perform for us.
18:31Finn raised an eyebrow.
18:33Yeah?
18:34What gave you that idea?
18:35Do I have to report every time we kiss?
18:37Chase's hand paused.
18:39He recovered fast and let out a low laugh.
18:43Kiss?
18:44His gaze drifted over my lips.
18:47Halfway through the meal, I got up for the restroom.
18:49When I came out, Chase was waiting at the door.
18:51He jerked his chin, signaling me to follow him out.
18:56Not wanting a scene inside, I followed him through the side exit.
18:59Outside was a parking lot.
19:04He leaned by the door and lit a cigarette.
19:06A smile in his eyes.
19:08He spoke first.
19:09So, did you really kiss him?
19:11I said nothing, not bothering with him.
19:13Chase flicked his ash and closed in slowly.
19:16Don't lie, Ashel.
19:17What's wrong with you?
19:18My face hardened, and I turned to go back.
19:20He grabbed my arm.
19:22Someone who'd really kissed wouldn't act like you are now.
19:24He dropped his eyes to my lips, his voice low.
19:27A real kiss leaves this swollen all day.
19:29You wouldn't go easy either.
19:31You like to bite.
19:34Lips to neck to collarbone.
19:35Then you kiss lower and lower, Asher.
19:37He pinned me to the wall and breathed my name.
19:40The old me would have melted.
19:45I laughed once.
19:46Got another cigarette?
19:48Surprised, he raised a brow and held out the one from his lips.
19:51I caught it between my lips and took a deep drag.
19:54He watched my lips, then my throat.
19:56His gaze slid lower, and his body pressed closer.
19:59His breathing grew heavy, and his hands started to wander.
20:02The moment his hand groped my pants, I ground the cigarette into his forearm.
20:06Shit!
20:06Chase's arm jerked, and he stumbled back.
20:08I watched, hard-eyed, as pain twisted his face.
20:11Chase, stay away from me.
20:13Next to Finn, you're rotten through and through.
20:16Jake took over ten minutes to return to the table.
20:19His face was dark, especially when he looked at me.
20:21Daisy glanced at us both and said nothing.
20:23The Pascaccio dessert was mine, sitting in front of me.
20:26As dinner round down, Daisy suddenly leaned over.
20:29Out of everyone's sight, she scooped a big bite from my plate.
20:32Before I could react, she'd shoved it in her mouth.
20:35Seconds later, she slammed down her fork.
20:37Heist spread on her face.
20:38Her lips swelled, and she gasped.
20:40Chase caught her as she started to collapse.
20:42Daisy, are you having a reaction?
20:44Daisy was choking and couldn't answer.
20:46That Pascaccio dessert had sat in front of me the whole time.
20:49Daisy had to know there were Pascaccios in it.
20:51She's allergic to tree nuts and always carries and spotted an epec.
20:54One stray nut in a salad and she'd spot it instant.
20:57But just now, she saw it clearly and ate it anyway.
21:00And everyone saw the dessert was mine.
21:04Chase scooped Daisy up and rushed out.
21:09By the time we reached the ER, Daisy had gotten epinephrine.
21:13The nurse said Chase had gone to handle paperwork.
21:16You're her brother?
21:17I nodded.
21:17The nurse's tone turned stern.
21:19She's allergic to tree nuts.
21:20Family should know that best.
21:22How did she touch it?
21:23I opened my mouth but had no time to explain.
21:26The nurse set the call button by my hand.
21:28She needs watching for a while.
21:29Anything wrong or the IV pump alarms, press this for me.
21:32Then she left.
21:33Finn leaned to one side, staring at the unconscious Daisy.
21:36That sister of yours really goes all in.
21:38She wasn't like this as a kid.
21:40Something went wrong somewhere.
21:41After a while, the IV pump at Daisy's bed started beeping.
21:44I stood to press the call button for the nurse.
21:46The moment I neared the bed, a hand clamped my arm.
21:49What are you trying to do now?
21:50Chase's voice came through gritted teeth at my ear.
21:53The next second, he threw me hard against the IV poller.
21:56My shoulder and back slammed into the steel pole.
22:01Asher!
22:03Finn caught me and asked, low and tense,
22:05Did you hit anything?
22:07I think I'm fine.
22:08It took a few seconds before I shook my head.
22:10He half-held me and eased me into a nearby chair.
22:13Then he turned and walked toward Chase.
22:16Don't look at me like that, Finn.
22:17Asher brought this on himself.
22:18He ordered the dessert with tree nuts.
22:20I'll assume it wasn't on purpose.
22:21And just now, Asher only wanted to call the nurse.
22:24Who knows what he wanted to do to Daisy.
22:25Chase jerked his chin at me, his eyes ugly.
22:28Finn said nothing, and his eyes landed on the IV pole standing by the wall.
22:31It was a solid steel rod.
22:33I gripped the edge of the chair and called to him low.
22:35Finn, don't start something here.
22:36You'll get kicked off the team.
22:37He seemed to stop hearing any of us.
22:39Catching Chase off guard, he grabbed his collar and yanked him close.
22:42His other hand seized the IV pole, ready to swing it.
22:46Hey, stop!
22:47Security is coming right now.
22:49One more move from either of you and I call the police.
22:51She stepped in front of the bed, checking Daisy's monitor and IV line.
22:55Finn glared at Chase for two seconds, then tossed the pole back.
22:58He let out a heavy breath and shoved Chase off.
23:00That was Asher's dessert.
23:01Daisy reached over and took it herself.
23:03She knew she can't touch tree nuts and ate it anyway.
23:06Either she's stupid, or she did it on purpose.
23:08You and your girlfriend are both rotten.
23:09By now the pain had eased off.
23:11I walked over, not looking at Chase's twisted face.
23:14I tugged Finn's arm.
23:15Let's go.
23:16No need to explain to trash like him.
23:18Chase raised a hand to stop me.
23:19Asher, I thought he didn't finish.
23:22Ignoring the pull of pain, I turned and punched him.
23:24His head snapped aside.
23:26He didn't hit back or speak.
23:28Who asked what you thought?
23:29Chase, who are you to me?
23:34The hand at his side curled a little.
23:36He used to do that when he was hurting.
23:38But so what?
23:38I didn't care about him anymore.
23:40Without looking back, I pulled Finn out of the ER.
23:42After the ER, I followed Finn back to his dorm.
23:45He lived alone.
23:46His roommate had moved out long ago.
23:48Finn pulled out an athlete first aid kit and spoke without looking up.
23:51Take your shirt off.
23:51I stopped scanning the room and slowly looked at him.
23:54He must have caught how it sounded.
23:55The moment our eyes met, his ears went red.
23:57No, I mean, I need to treat your back.
23:59I sat on his bed, hands behind me, chin tipped up.
24:02Then will you take it off for me?
24:03I just hit Chase.
24:04My arm hurts too much to lift.
24:06Head down, Finn fumbled through the kit.
24:07Fine.
24:08He crouched in front of me, hand half raised, afraid to touch.
24:11Easy.
24:12Don't hurt me.
24:13Looking up, he undid my shirt buttons one by one.
24:15Halfway down, he suddenly stopped.
24:17The fresh bruise, the old wrist mark, and years of goalie scars overlap.
24:21Finn's fingertip rested at the bruise's edge, holding back anger.
24:25Did Chase do all of these?
24:27The shoulder was from a game.
24:28He turned me away, squeezed out ointment, and spread it over my back.
24:32Every game, I watch you the whole time.
24:34A bruise this place, this shape, doesn't come from a game.
24:38Cool ointment and his hot fingers pressed across me, inch by inch.
24:42My back tightened, and my throat closed up.
24:44But I still wanted to pretend nothing was happening.
24:46His hand didn't stop at my back.
24:47It slid from my shoulder bleed to my jaw, then my lips, neck, and chest.
24:50It traced the exact places Chase had touched.
24:52I saw him kiss you, outside the ring.
24:55My first thought wasn't shock.
24:56I wanted to tear him off you.
24:58His fingers brushed my chest, and my whole body tensed.
25:02My body's reaction couldn't be held back anymore.
25:04He gripped my wrist and rubbed ointment on the old mark.
25:07Then he pressed against me from behind, holding me close.
25:10Chase always saw me with Zoe and called me a safe, straight guy.
25:13I never explained.
25:15I let him believe it.
25:16His warm breath hit my ear, and mid-sentence he paused.
25:18I braced to sit up.
25:19Finn pressed a hand to my good side and pushed me back down.
25:21We were face-to-face, eyes locked.
25:24His voice was already unsteady.
25:26Chase wants you, but he's scared to let the football world know.
25:29So he hid you and used Daisy to prop up his straight face.
25:32His voice was already unsteady.
25:34The heat of his palm burned through my skin.
25:39Pinned under him, my reaction was impossible for him to miss.
25:43He lowered his head until his forehead nearly touched mine.
25:49I like you, Ashler.
25:52I want the whole world to know I like you.
25:56At that point, I couldn't pretend anymore.
25:58I reached up, gripped his knee, and pulled him down.
26:01I kissed him first, caught his lip, and parted his teeth.
26:04As our tongues tangled, I felt him hard against me too.
26:07I hooked my legs around his waist and rolled them a few times.
26:10At the contact, Finn went stotted.
26:12He muttered shit, forehead jammed to mine, breathing ragged.
26:15Stop squirming.
26:16After several seconds, he spoke, voice horsey.
26:19You're still hurt, Asher.
26:20Not now.
26:21Just then, his phone rang.
26:24It was Chase calling.
26:25Is Asher with you?
26:26I came with his meds.
26:27He's gone and won't pick up.
26:28Finn hit speaker and tossed the phone aside.
26:30I instinctively moved to rise, but he pressed me back.
26:33Just tell me if he's there.
26:35Finn looked down at me and leaned in again.
26:36The kiss was loud, and after it, we were both panting.
26:39He's under me.
26:40Two seconds later, Chase hung up without a word.
26:43Less than two minutes later, a crash hit the door.
26:46Someone was kicking it from outside.
26:47The second kick was harder, and the door flew open.
26:50As Chase burst in, I just pushed Finn off.
26:53I sat up on the bed, fumbling to pull my clothes on.
26:56Finn stayed calm and glanced at the kicked-in door.
26:58He even had the nerve to ruffle my hair.
27:00Cheap door.
27:01Next time we get a room instead.
27:03Chase's eyes fixed on my face.
27:05I was flushed, breathing uneasy.
27:07My lips were swollen and bright red.
27:09I always thought you and Zoe were a couple.
27:12Chase stared at Finn, his voice low.
27:14The whole room tensed up.
27:16Don't lose it.
27:17This is a dorm.
27:18I tried to defuse it.
27:19Finn reached over and fixed my collar and back.
27:22You believed it yourself.
27:24Whose fault is that?
27:25You were faking this whole time?
27:27Were you after Ash from the very start?
27:29Something in that hit a nerve in Chase.
27:31His face snapped, and he threw a punch at Finn.
27:34Finn caught his wrist and wrenched it back hard.
27:36Yeah.
27:37Back when you had Asher, I already wanted him.
27:40Lucky for me, he chose me now.
27:45Chase gritted his teeth, his eyes gone red.
27:48The forever composed golden boy couldn't hold it together now.
27:51You knew Asher was mine!
27:52How dare you touch him!
27:54The two of them nearly grappled again.
27:56I frowned.
27:58Chase, are you done?
27:59He touches you and I can't hit him?
28:01I stepped in front of Finn and faced him evenly.
28:03He's my boyfriend.
28:04Whatever we do is our right, and I should thank you.
28:07You called it off and pushed him right at me.
28:09The anger drained from Chase's face.
28:10He stared at me, looking lost.
28:12I said no more and pulled Finn to leave.
28:14But I never truly wanted you with anyone else.
28:16Near the door, Chase's quiet voice came from behind.
28:19Didn't you say you'd always like me?
28:21Liar!
28:22I turned back and looked at Chase.
28:24I stopped liking you the day you refused to go public.
28:27Finn cleared his throat and puffed out his chest.
28:29I went public on day one.
28:31IG, Snap, even my Finsta.
28:33All this time, everything I did had nothing to do with you.
28:36What makes you think I still like you?
28:37Because you hid me while playing couple with Daisy for everyone?
28:40You don't get to use me as a sex toy and only care in bed.
28:43Finn wasn't done.
28:45Smugness in his eyes.
28:46And I never hid him.
28:47I confessed ages ago.
28:48Chase's face paled.
28:50He forced out a stiff smile.
28:51Why so serious?
28:52It's fine.
28:53You don't like me anymore?
28:53That's fine too.
28:54I looked at him and felt nothing at all.
28:56I even found it a little funny.
28:58What good was playing the heartbroken victim now?
29:02The next day, Finn and I passed the campus fountain.
29:05Daisy rushed out and blocked our path.
29:07Her hair was a mess.
29:08Eyes swollen, looking wrecked.
29:10Plenty passed by the fountain and several stopped to watch.
29:13The second she spoke, she aimed it all at me.
29:16Chase broke up with me.
29:17This is yours fault, isn't it?
29:19You knew he wasn't normal about you and stayed anyway.
29:22Why can't you just disappear?
29:24I looked at her.
29:26Daisy, haven't I stayed far enough away?
29:28Hide.
29:28Transfer.
29:29Take leave.
29:30Move away.
29:30Vanish from me and Chase.
29:32And everything's fine, right?
29:34Stealing a man from your own sister, doesn't that disgust you?
29:36Finn's face darkened.
29:37He stepped between us.
29:38His fist clenched until it cracked.
29:40I raised a hand and stopped him.
29:42Finn, I've got this.
29:43But Daisy only pushed further.
29:45Cussing, she lunged a claw at my face.
29:47I dodged aside and clamped the back of her neck.
29:50She got no chance to struggle.
29:52I shoved her head straight into the fountain.
29:54A few seconds later, I pulled her up.
29:57Awake now?
29:58Water streamed down her face as she coughed.
30:01I looked down at her.
30:02What have I ever done to wrong you?
30:05All these years.
30:06When did you treat me as a brother?
30:08Not your gay brother?
30:10Why should I vanish for a piece of trash?
30:12Why didn't that photo destroy you?
30:15Her head snapped up.
30:16Her eyes terrifyingly red.
30:18That one line and I understood everything.
30:21She pulled the photo off Chase's phone and posted it.
30:25All she ever wanted was to see me ruined.
30:27I didn't ask a thing.
30:29Her face said it all.
30:32Her own words seemed to scare her.
30:35Then why did Chase stop wanting me?
30:37The crowd at the fountain kept growing.
30:40The school's sweetest cheer can sobbed and no one helped her up.
30:44Finn pulled off his jacket and I dropped it beside her.
30:50Without another glance, Finn and I turned and left.
30:53Daisy couldn't hold up either and went home for a while.
30:56That week, Chase vanished from campus completely.
30:59No one saw him at football practice or the weekly parties.
31:02The two who guarded their image best were suddenly gone.
31:05After class, I went straight to find Finn.
31:07He said he'd walk me back to the dorm.
31:08As we walked, I brought up the injury excuse he'd used that day.
31:12I'm fully healed now.
31:13Finn didn't respond.
31:15At my sweet door, he didn't wait for me to go in first.
31:18Dipped down to my lips, one hand gripping my nape.
31:22His tongue pushed in, bolder than that day, leading me.
31:25Mid-kiss, his breathing broke and the hand holding me shook.
31:28I held his neck and let the kiss go deeper.
31:31Just as we broke apart, the sweet door opened from inside.
31:34Chase stood in the doorway.
31:35We'd always shared this sweet and his things were still inside.
31:38He caught the tail end of our kiss.
31:40Head back first.
31:41Staying calm, I told Finn to go first.
31:43Finn glanced at Chase, said nothing more and left.
31:48Chase stepped out and blocked my way.
31:50He stared hard at my mouth.
31:51His tongue was down your throat.
31:53You can stand that?
31:53Asher, when did you get so cheap?
31:55Those two lines were too loud.
31:57Everyone in the hall turned around.
31:59You slept with Finn, too?
32:00Someone touches you and you spread your legs.
32:02That's who you are.
32:03Chase kept going.
32:04Whoever sleeps with you that week becomes your boyfriend.
32:07Finn will see it.
32:08You're nothing special.
32:09Anyone can have you.
32:12Doors down the hall opened one by one.
32:15Some stopped walking.
32:16Others raised their phones.
32:18Someone in the crowd murmured,
32:20Is that Chase, the quarterback?
32:22Isn't he Daisy's boyfriend?
32:23Why is he into her brother?
32:24I no longer cared what people said.
32:26Looking at Chase, I just found it absurd.
32:28Here's the biggest difference between you and Finn.
32:33He never uses these things to hurt me.
32:36And you?
32:38Hurting me is all you know.
32:40Chase blanked for a moment.
32:42Then he drew a breath and stood tall toward the cameras.
32:44He raised his voice so everyone there could hear.
32:47Yes, Asher and I used to be together.
32:49I liked him for a long time.
32:51I already came out to my parents.
32:52No more pretending.
32:54Film all you want.
32:55I'm not scared.
32:56He looked back at me with an almost tragic seriousness.
32:59I admitted it publicly.
33:01My pride is gone.
33:03I went this far, Asher.
33:05What more do you want?
33:06He almost made me laugh.
33:08Going public was never a prize, Chase.
33:10You hid me for six months.
33:12One speech erases that.
33:13You insulted me, then want me back.
33:16Should I be moved?
33:17What did you reveal?
33:18Only how great you think you are.
33:21Chase stared at me, his eyes sinking.
33:23No, Asher, you've always loved me.
33:27Finn doesn't deserve you.
33:29I didn't answer him.
33:31I turned and walked out through the crowd.
33:36The hallway video from days ago had spread across campus.
33:39Right after came Chase's football game.
33:41It was his home game.
33:45Under all the talk from that video, he fell apart on the field.
33:48His throws kept missing.
33:50Sailing high or getting picked off.
33:52Once, right after the snap, a sack slammed him to the ground.
33:55Daisy stood on the cheer sideline, forcing her smile to hold.
33:59Her pompoms never dared to stop.
34:01The worse he played, the stiffer her smile got.
34:04The final whistle blew.
34:05They lost.
34:07In front of everyone, Chase slammed his helmet down.
34:11You screamed all game.
34:12How was I supposed to play?
34:13Would we have lost if not for you?
34:15He dumped the whole law squarely onto her.
34:17Everyone saw exactly how he treated his official girlfriend.
34:20The scene got filmed and posted on the campus gossip account.
34:23Soon, someone set it beside the hallway video.
34:25One showed him shaming his ex, the other blaming his girlfriend.
34:27People dug up how he hid me while playing couple with Daisy.
34:30This guy can't throw straight or keep any-
34:32Hides one, fools one, then blames his girlfriend for losing.
34:34The comments got nastier by the line.
34:36His golden boy image broke in public.
34:39Daisy went down with him.
34:43She had wanted all eyes on her.
34:46Now the spotlight trapped her.
34:48My side had a home game, too.
34:50For two periods, they hammered my crease.
34:55One hit knocked me flat.
34:57I got up and kept stopping pucks.
35:00Two periods in, they hadn't scored.
35:04In the third, Finn took over.
35:07He stole the puck and drove their zone.
35:13We won at the final whistle.
35:17The second it ended, my teammates rushed me.
35:20They smacked my mask and shook me.
35:22They yelled I'd held two periods alone.
35:24With them, I was never the spare gay brother.
35:27I took off my mask.
35:28A hype teammate kissed my cheek.
35:30Finn went dark and pulled me behind him.
35:32The guys G'd at his jealousy.
35:37After the game, a reporter asked about Finn.
35:39He looked the chairman didn't dodge.
35:41Our goalie held the first two periods alone.
35:43I just didn't want him carrying it alone anymore.
35:46He never said the word love, but everyone understood.
35:49Both moments were public.
35:51Chase was shamed before the school.
35:52Finn claimed me with pride.
35:54The campus gossip account ran the interview, too.
35:56In the comments, some did come after our relationship.
35:59Is this the trend on the hockey team now?
36:01Did the goalie sleep with a forward for screen time?
36:03But this time, I wasn't carrying it alone.
36:06A teammate replied, telling them to guard two full periods first.
36:09Zoe re-shared the interview, adding that it was long overdue.
36:12Finn pinned it to the top of his page.
36:14The little wave of attacks died down fast.
36:17After it cleared out, Finn didn't walk me back like usual.
36:20He scratched his head, a little shy.
36:22This weekend, want to come to my place?
36:24I want to introduce you to my parents properly.
36:26Zoe will be there, too.
36:27I looked at him and nodded.
36:29In that moment, I realized I finally had somewhere to go.
36:33The weekend after the game, Finn took me to his home.
36:37At the front door, he was more nervous than me, palms sweating.
36:41My parents have been waiting for you.
36:43The door opened and his parents came out smiling.
36:46They didn't ask what we were or push any support speech.
36:49Zoe was there, too.
36:50Come on, Finn. You're more nervous than Asha.
36:52Seeing us walk in, she smirked.
36:54That one line eased most of my nerves.
36:56Finn's mom had saved me a seat and handed me a water.
36:59She also passed an ice pack for the shoulder I hurt.
37:02Finn's dad slid an extra plate of dinner in front of me.
37:04He asked if the hit was bad and whether it still hurt.
37:07They wanted no explanation, just treated me as someone Finn brought home.
37:10Sitting in that room, I felt a little dazed.
37:13One thought kept running through my head.
37:14I was home.
37:15Late that night, we went back to Finn's room.
37:17As the door shut behind us, I leaned toward Finn.
37:21Finn shut the door but didn't rush to touch me.
37:24He came close, forehead to mine, his voice horus.
37:27You took some hits in the game today.
37:29Are your injuries okay?
37:30I reached up and grabbed his collar.
37:32Quit stalling, Finn.
37:34Are we doing this or not?
37:35He pinned me to the door and kissed me hard.
37:38This kiss was heavier and more urgent than any before.
37:40I didn't let him do all the work.
37:42I gripped his name and kissed back, just as fierce.
37:44Still kissing me, he steered me towards the bed.
37:47His hands slid under my clothes, over my waist, back, and shoulders.
37:51Our clothes came off piece by piece and hit the floor.
37:53His bare chest pressed to mine, burning hot.
37:56Both our breaths broke, neither faking calm anymore.
37:59He was hard against me and so was I with nothing hidden.
38:04Right as he was about to push in, he stopped.
38:06Braced over me, sweat on his brow, he stared into my eyes.
38:09I'll go slow.
38:11If it hurts, you have to tell me.
38:14I bit down on his calopone.
38:19He pushed in slowly, so slow he was shaking.
38:22I tensed for a beat, then eased open to take him.
38:28With that, he finally let himself move.
38:30He barely held back after that.
38:32He'd held back too long, wanting me, but afraid each thrust would hurt.
38:36In that push and pull, I saw his eyes had reddened.
38:38It rattled me a little, and I reached for his face.
38:41Why are you crying?
38:42It just feels too good.
38:44I hooked his waist and had him lift me upright.
38:47He stayed so careful that I just moved myself.
38:51Finn's panting stayed against my chest.
38:53Then he let go completely, gripped my waist and drove up hard.
38:57Then he let go completely, gripped my waist and drove up hard.
39:01I cried out and gripped his hair as I came again and again.
39:09We went at it until nearly dawn.
39:13Exhausted, I sank into his arms, eyelids giving out.
39:16He held me tight, chin on my head, never letting go.
39:20I tried to push him off and get dressed.
39:22Finn only pulled me closer.
39:25We should head to class.
39:26Skip it.
39:27We stay home today and go nowhere.
39:29Home?
39:30Yeah.
39:31Our home.
39:32I hugged him back tight, listening to his heartbeat in the warm bed.
39:35I finally had a place I could call home.
39:37A place where I never bow, explain, or give in, and someone still holds on.
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