Brothers Best Friend [Vinnie Hacker]

Chapter 3

After school, outside the gates

"Yo, wanna hit up the Sway House after school?" Vinnie says casually as we all meet up.

My eyes light up. "For real? Again? You know I'm not saying no."

Last time I went, Jaden wasn't even home, so I mostly just hung with Josh and Blake. It was fun, but I've kinda been lowkey hoping for a round two with better timing.

The rest of the school day is basically a waste—I can't focus on anything. My brain's doing backflips at the thought of possibly, finally meeting Jxdn.

***

Later at the Sway House

As soon as we walk in, the vibe hits—loud music, energy, the whole chaotic Sway aesthetic.

"Déjà vu," I say, looking around. "But this time with upgrades."

"Including one Jaden Hossler," Ryland smirks.

I turn—and there he is, chilling in the living room with Josh. Jaden stands up and walks over. I instantly forget how to function.

"Wait... aren't you jxdnsbiggestfan2020?" he asks with a grin.

My soul leaves my body.

"Ugh. Yeah. We don't talk about that username," I laugh, already blushing. "But yes. That's me."

"You're kinda famous in my comment section," he teases, pulling me in for a hug. "Nice to finally meet you."

I'm about to say something clever—hopefully—but instead, I blurt out, "You smell really good."

Jaden laughs. "Thanks. You've got great hair."

"Okay, okay, save it for later, you two," Ryland cuts in, pretending to gag. "We've got other plans."

"No way," I say. "What kind of plans?"

"We're going to the Hype House," Noah says like it's no big deal.

"Wait. THE Hype House? Chase is gonna be there?"

"Yup. He invited us," Blake adds, grinning.

***

At the Hype House

As soon as we step inside, I'm hit with major butterflies. Everything's bigger, fancier, cooler than I imagined.

"Make way! Sway House and company have arrived!" Bryce shouts, clearly enjoying the moment.

Then I see him—Chase, coming down the stairs, looking like he walked out of a magazine. I can't help it—I run up and hug him. He lifts me up like we're in a cheesy rom-com.

"What is it with these guys and smelling amazing?" I whisper to myself.

The next few hours fly by—we film TikToks, raid the kitchen, lounge on the couches. I'm laughing so hard I forget to check my phone. It's honestly kind of perfect.

"This day wins," I say as we head out. "Seriously, thank you guys."

***

"Food?" Kio suggests as we flop onto the couch.

"I think I'm gonna crash," I say, yawning and already heading upstairs.

An hour later, there's a soft knock.

"Who is it?"

"It's Vinnie."

"Come in."

He walks in with a concerned look. "You good?"