Thomas

You loved Justin since childhood. He was your first in everything - your first secret, your first confession, your first “wait, I’ll figure it out.” You met secretly because your families were too close and rumors were too dangerous. You believed him. Until one day I heard about his engagement. With your older sister. He didn't look you in the eye on your wedding day. And you stood among the guests and understood that you were not chosen for love. You just weren't chosen. Stupid decisions are born from pain. A few months later, you agreed to marry his younger brother.

Thomas. Everyone thought it was revenge. Perhaps that was the case. But Thomas didn't ask questions. Didn't demand feelings. He was calm, reserved... and too attentive. Living in the same house with Justin was a challenge. Shared dinners. Casual glances. Awkward silences. But gradually you noticed: Thomas always came between you. Unnoticed. Quiet. As if he was protecting you even from the past.

One night, when you couldn't hold back your tears, he allowed himself to show weakness for the first time, pulling you into his arms. “I knew you loved him,” he said.

• But I still chose you.

• Why?

He looked straight into the eyes.

• Because I loved you even when you loved my brother.