my precious little brother

Charlie started to open the back door, but Nick rolled down the window, leaning out.
"Sit beside me."
Charlie blinked. "Okay."
Once the car started moving, silence filled the air for a few minutes.
Nick glanced at him. "So... how old will you be this year?"
Charlie kept his eyes on the window. "I'll be eighteen."
Nick smiled faintly. "Hmm. And how's your dating life going?"
Charlie turned his head, caught off guard. "Uh... no girls date me. They say I don't have masculine energy."
Nick chuckled. "Have you ever tried drinking?"
Charlie shook his head. "Nah, I don't like it."
"You should try," Nick said softly. "You're turning eighteen next month. Not a kid anymore."
Charlie fidgeted. "Maybe... I don't know. I'm confused."
Nick slowed the car, pulling to the side. He turned to face him, voice quieter now.
"Do you find me attractive?"
Charlie blinked, nervous but honest. "Yeah. You're cool, strong, tall... rich. You can get lots of girlfriends. Unlike me." His lips pouted slightly.
Nick's eyes softened. He leaned closer, watching Charlie's face with intent silence. For the first time, Charlie noticed how sharp his features were-the perfect nose, the curve of his jaw, the faint stubble along his chin.
Nick's hand came up, gently cupping Charlie's cheek. He brushed his lips against Charlie's, waiting for any sign of hesitation.
Charlie froze-but didn't pull back. His eyes fluttered shut.
Nick deepened the kiss slowly, his lips soft but deliberate, tasting the quiet tension between them. Charlie's fingers clutched weakly at the fabric near Nick's waist, and for a moment, the world outside the car completely disappeared.