Beyond Bromance ♡ (Boy x Boy)

-Seven-

Theo

The moonlight reflected off the stainless steel of the entrance gate as Theo hesitated for a moment and looked up at the villa before him.

It was a fusion of Spanish tradition and modern architecture that captured his curious gaze, while his mother eagerly inserted the key into the lock and turned it, producing a clear, ringing sound.

A gentle scent of warm earth and grass wafted by as they stepped onto the property, the suitcases rolling over the cobblestones with a rhythmic hum, resolute in their journey.

"Look at this!" exclaimed his father with childlike enthusiasm, pointing toward the well-maintained hedges that framed the garden. "The view must be absolutely fantastic in daylight!"

Theo's parents appeared to have already forgotten the fatigue from their journey; their eyes sparkled as they absorbed the sight of the sun loungers standing like faithful guardians around the dark surface of the pool. Even in the dim light of night, he could discern the white terrace area and the promise of leisurely days under the Spanish sun.

They proceeded to the house, where cold, fresh air welcomed them as they entered the spacious living room of the villa. Shadows danced slowly along the walls, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The large sofa beckoned guests to enjoy long evenings, while the kitchen's modern appliances gleamed brightly under the moonlight filtering through the panoramic windows.

"Imagine that we're going to spend two weeks here," Theo muttered to himself, his words nearly drowned out by the silence that enveloped the room like a heavy blanket.

He could feel the excitement building in his chest—a blend of nervousness and anticipation. The past few months had been chaotic, filled with the end of school, exams, and all the accompanying stress. However, in this moment, everything else faded away. It was just them, the family, and this beautiful Spanish villa, ready to be filled with laughter and memories.

He needed to think ahead to move past what had occurred during the flight.

"It will be a nice vacation," his mother said, casting a cautious glance in his direction as if she were trying to gauge his mood.

"Yes, definitely," he replied, but he quickly began to question his own words and thoughts. Would the beauty of the villa and the presence of his family be sufficient to erase the remnants of what could have been? He wandered further into the room, feeling the cold tiles beneath his feet, and hoped that the new morning would bring a fresh start.

He glided through the villa's corridor, his eyes scanning each door as the creaking sound of his suitcase echoed behind him. The polished handles appeared almost inviting as he reached out his hand, but behind each door lay either a bathroom or a laundry room. His parents' low murmurs about how wonderful everything was barely penetrated his thoughts.

"Maybe here?" he muttered as a new door materialized. The room beyond promised tranquility. It was small, but the window was slightly ajar, allowing the distant sound of waves to drift in. That was enough.

"I can sleep here," Theo declared, grasping the handle to close the door, eager to immerse himself in the solitude that awaited him beneath the covers.

"But Theo!" His mother's voice pinned him in place, filled with concern and a hint of accusation. "Shouldn't you stay up a little longer since we just arrived?"

He turned his face over his shoulder, meeting her gaze, which sought his with a blend of concern and anticipation. A soft sigh escaped him, and he realized he had to relent, if only a little—for her.