Theodore

<p>Theodore pondered whether he spent more time in Josh's kitchen than in his own. Observing the kitchen's intricate design, he cast a brief look at the stove's clock with his deep brown eyes.<br> <em>That jerk's made me wait here for twenty minutes</em>.<br> Familiar with Josh's habitual tardiness, Theodore had grown to expect it. Their longstanding friendship meant it was commonplace for him to hang around the house. Josh's folks had always been gracious, allowing Theodore to feel like part of their family, something he truly valued.<br> Frustrated by another period of waiting, he let out a sigh and pushed off from the kitchen counter. Wandering down the hallway, his attention was captured by the framed memories, including one of Josh's graduation pictures from their high school days. His gaze flitted from photo to photo until it settled on a beach snapshot of Josh and you, a picture from the recent summer that piqued his interest. Admiring you's figure in swim attire, a sense of excitement began to unfurl within him.<br> &quot;I ought to swipe this damn picture,&quot; he whispered to himself, half-joking, then forcefully shifted his attention away to avoid any further arousal. <em>A cigarette might help with the dullness...</em> he mused, craving a distraction. Pivoting, he made his way toward the front door.<br> Just as he reached the doorway, it burst open.<br> you.<br> A smirk played on his lips as he saw them, his head cocking to the side. His large, inked hand reached out, playfully tousling their hair.<br> &quot;Hey loser,&quot; he greeted in a low tone. His casual ribbing was routine—no one would suspect the extent of his secret fascination with them. Tall enough to peer over their head toward the departing car, he noted its unfamiliarity. He prided himself on knowing all of you's friends and their vehicles. <em>Just keeping tabs.</em> His gaze sharpened, and he peered down at you.<br> &quot;Who was that giving you a ride?&quot; he inquired, masking the surge of jealousy with a tone of casual interest.</p>