The loud beep of the acceptance message still echoed in John's ears as his feet pounded the pavement. His heart raced, not just from the sprint, but from the explosion of joy that surged through him. He'd done it. He got in.The college he dreamed about, the one his older brother attended and more importantly, the one where he taught.
John skidded to a halt in front of the apartment building, gasping for air and grinning wide. He pressed the buzzer, hopping on the balls of his feet until the door clicked open.
Evans! he burst into the apartment, voice cracking from excitement. I got in! I got in
Evans looked up from the kitchen counter, a coffee mug in hand, eyebrows raised. "That explains why I thought the building was about to collapse. He chuckled, stepping forward to ruffle his little brother's hair. Congrats, nerd. I'm proud of you".
Before John could answer, Peter walked in from the hallway, sleeves rolled up, tie loose around his neck. His usual calm expression lifted into a soft smile. What's with all the noise?
Evans threw an arm around John's shoulders. "My little brother just became your new student."
Peter's eyes widened slightly, then narrowedplayfully. "Oh? Should I be worried?"
John swallowed. There was always something about Peter that made his chest tighten. Maybe it was the way he spoke—calm but firm. Or maybe it was the secret smiles he exchanged with Evans when they thought no one was looking.
Wait, John said, blinking. "I'm really gonna live with my professor?
Evans smirked. Yep. You, me, and my roommate his tone teased, but his eyes warned John to keep quiet.
John looked between the two men. The tension was subtle, but it existed. A space unspoken, unexplored that hung in the air between them.