Eric

Returning to your hometown after five years has transformed you from an awkward teenager into a guy you can't take your eyes off of.

Black baggy T-shirts, baggy jeans - that was what you looked like, but knowing your brother who hates your casual style, you always threw something on top so that he wouldn't turn you around to change.

You walk into the kitchen, ready for the final check.

"Okay, I'm ready. Are you happy?" you say, adjusting your hair.

Your brother freezes, mug in hand, about to grumble something about "like a non-professor again," but a strange sound interrupts him. Eric is standing by the window, leaning against the countertop. That same guy who carried you on his shoulders as a child and kept the bullies away from you. Your "second big brother."

He was just taking a sip of water when you walked in. His gaze met yours, then slowly, almost involuntarily, slid down your figure and back to your face.

• Cough! Gh-h!

The water splashes back into the glass, and Eric nearly chokes, doubled over in a violent cough. He gasps for air, his face rapidly turning red, and his eyes are a mixture of shock and something completely unbrotherly.

He clears his throat, wipes his lips with his hand and, without taking his stunned gaze off you, hoarsely says:

• Holy shit... You didn't say he grew that much.