American Cliché - Finneas story

Late- night Truths

Chapter Fourteen: Late-Night Truths

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As they settled back on the couch, the conversation drifted into those deep, late-night questions that seem to come out only when the world has gone quiet. Billie grinned, looking at Y/N. “Alright, I’m curious. What’s something you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t yet?”

Y/N thought for a moment, her gaze softening. “I think… I’d love to travel. I’ve always wanted to see places that are quiet, where you can just breathe and be present, you know? I never really got the chance. Life’s just been a bit… busy, I guess.”

Finneas’s eyes lingered on her, sensing there was more she wasn’t saying. “Busy how?” he asked gently, his voice carrying a softness that made her feel safe.

Y/N shrugged, a small, wistful smile tugging at her lips. “Oh, you know. I moved around a lot growing up, and making friends was… hard. I guess I just got used to being on my own.”

The room fell silent for a moment as her words settled. Billie watched her brother’s face, noticing the slight sadness in his eyes as he absorbed what Y/N had shared. It was clear he felt something deeply for her—a protective instinct, perhaps, or simply the ache of knowing she’d had a lonely path.

But Y/N didn’t seem fully aware of how her words had landed. She kept talking, her tone light, almost as if she was brushing it all off. “I’m used to it by now, though. I’ve learned to enjoy my own company. And hey, now I’ve got you two for company, so I’m doing pretty well.”

Finneas’s grip on her hand tightened just a little, his thumb brushing across her knuckles in a quiet show of support. “Well, you’ve got us anytime you need. I mean that.”

Y/N looked up at him, a small, genuine smile lighting up her face. “Thank you, Finneas. That means a lot.”

Billie watched them quietly, feeling the depth of the moment. She didn’t want to break the silence, didn’t want to disturb the understanding that seemed to pass between her brother and Y/N. She could see how much Y/N’s words had affected him, how he seemed almost pained to know the lonely path she’d walked.

After a moment, Billie spoke up, her voice soft. “Well, here’s to making up for all the adventures you’ve missed out on, Y/N. We’re glad you’re here.”

Y/N smiled, warmth spreading through her as she felt the sincerity of their words. She couldn’t quite explain it, but for the first time in a long time, she felt like she wasn’t so alone. And as they sat together, quietly watching the city lights through the window, Finneas held her hand a little tighter, silently promising her that she’d never have to face her days alone again.