My Best Friends Brother

1

"Y/N, are you coming over today? My parents said you can stay the night," Ruth, my best friend since primary school, squeaked. "Of course, girl!" I squeaked back, jumping up and down.

Later at Ruth's house...
As we did our skincare and chatted, Ruth dropped a bomb. "Today, Richard is getting released from jail." I went pale. Richard, Ruth's older brother, had been my crush since I was ten. He got arrested 6 months ago after a stint in prison for car theft and drug use. He moved to LA two years ago, seeking a better life but finding disappointment and poverty. Ruth avoided discussing Richard's downfall, as it deeply affected her.
"That's great," I whispered. "I mean, I don't really care. I hate him; he's such a pig," scoffed Ruth. Awkwardly, I laughed, unsure of how to respond.
"Dinner is ready!" Ruth's mom called from downstairs. Excitedly, we rushed to the table, devouring tacos. "OMG, TACOS!" I exclaimed. Ruth's mom, stroking my hair, said, "I made them just for you." Alongside us were Ruth's twin brother, Juan, and her 8-year-old brother, Diego.
"Are you guys coming to Mason's party tonight?" Juan asked while downing his coke. "Nah, we're good," Ruth replied. "Aight," Juan said, getting up.

After eating, we chatted during a movie. Suddenly, the front door opened. Ruth's dad entered with a tall figure—Richard. He looked just as I remembered but more disheveled. Ignoring everyone, he didn't greet Ruth or me.
"Aren't you gonna greet your sister, Ricardo?" his mom asked. He glanced at me, then remarked, "Almost didn't recognize you with all that makeup on your face." In a defensive tone, I replied, "Umm, okay?" Ruth intervened, pulling me to her room.

I felt hurt; it had been two years since I last saw Richard, and his attitude stung. I'd transformed, losing weight, embracing fashion and makeup, and becoming more confident. I used to be the "ugly-chubby-weird" girl, but now I looked different and boys started to seek my attention.

"Juan and his friends are also coming to the fair next weekend," Ruth interrupted my thoughts. "Great, it's going to be so much fun," I responded, trying to shake off the awkward encounter with Richard.