Feel Pretty

eighteen (Eli)

I can't believe I did that. I kissed his forehead like it was the most natural thing in the world, like we've done it a hundred times before. What the hell was I thinking?

The thought looped in my head as I paced back and forth in the hallway. I rubbed my hands over my face, groaning. I could feel the embarrassment crawling up my neck. "Idiot, idiot, idiot," I muttered under my breath.

I knew I needed advice, but there was no way I was going to Mom with this. She'd probably faint from happiness and then start planning our wedding. My options were limited.

"Everly!" I burst into her room without knocking. She was lounging on her bed, scrolling through her phone.

She looked up, raising an eyebrow. "What, you finally realized I'm the smarter sibling?"

"Shut up," I grumbled, flopping down on the bed beside her. "I did something stupid."

"Shocking," she deadpanned, putting her phone down.

I shot her a glare, but it was half-hearted at best. "This is serious"

"Spill"

I hesitated, rubbing the back of my neck. "Okay, so... You know how I've been spending a lot of time with Odell?"

"Obviously. You're obsessed with him," she said with a smirk.

"He was upset today and I...Everly. I... I kissed Odell."

Everly blinked at me, clearly taken aback.

"You what?"

"Not like that!" I quickly clarified, feeling the heat rush to my cheeks. "It was just on the forehead, but... but still!"

Everly's eyes widened slightly, but she quickly regained her composure, her expression turning smug. "Ohhh, look at you being all affectionate. Didn't think you had it in you."

"That's not the point!" I groaned. "What was I thinking? I mean, it felt right in the moment, but now I'm freaking out. What if he thinks I'm weird? What if I crossed a line?"

Everly's smirk softened into something more sympathetic. "Eli, chill. It's not like you kissed him on the lips. A forehead kiss is sweet. It's comforting. If anything, it probably made him feel better."

I let out a sigh, sinking deeper into the bed. "But what if he didn't want it? What if I just made everything awkward between us?"

She nudged my arm playfully. "Stop overthinking. Knowing Odell, he probably appreciated it more than you realize. That guy needs all the love and support he can get."

I glanced at her, feeling a bit calmer but still unsure. "You really think so?"

"Totally," she said confidently. "And look, if you're really worried about it, just talk to him. You guys are close enough to have that conversation."

I nodded slowly. "Yeah... I guess you're right. I should talk to him."

"And for the record," Everly added with a mischievous grin, "you coming to me for advice instead of Mom? Smart move. She'd have started knitting baby booties."

I groaned again, burying my face in a pillow. "Don't even joke about that."

She laughed, patting my back. "Relax, Eli. You're doing fine. Just be honest with him."

I lifted my head, giving her a small, appreciative smile. "Thanks, Everly."

"Anytime, big bro. Just make sure to invite me to the wedding," she teased, dodging the pillow I threw at her.

Just when I was about to exit and close the door I heard her squeal  "Aww, Little Eli's got a crush!" before laughing. I groaned.

As I left her room, I felt a little better. Talking to Odell was the right thing to do. But still... What was I thinking?