𝕭en 𝕯rowned

They weren't dating. They hadn't even had a serious conversation about their feelings for each other. Yet, they both knew, though neither wanted to admit it, that there was something different between them.

Ben was sarcastic, reserved, and rather tough. He always had a cutting remark ready for Toby and rarely showed affection directly. If Toby got too close, Ben would probably mock him before admitting that, in reality, he didn't want him to leave.

Toby was completely different: optimistic, energetic, and much more expressive. He loved to tease Ben, constantly talking to him and finding any excuse to spend time with him. Sometimes it seemed like his mission in life was to make Ben smile, even though he'd later pretend he didn't care.

They argued about everything.

"Can you stop following me for five minutes?" Ben muttered, glancing sideways at Toby.

-No.

-What a surprise.

—Besides, you know you like it when I accompany you.

Ben let out a small, sarcastic laugh.

—In your dreams.

—So you admit it.

—I didn't say that.

—But you didn't say no either.

Ben remained silent for a few seconds.

Toby smiled, clearly pleased with himself.

That was the problem between them. They were always playing with that invisible line between friendship and something more. Neither of them dared to cross it.

Ben hid his feelings behind sarcasm and indifference.

Toby hid his own feelings behind jokes, energy, and a confidence he didn't always feel.

And although they could spend hours teasing each other, when one of them really needed the other, everything else ceased to matter.

Ben never said "I care about you."

It just appeared.

Toby never said "I like you".

He simply wanted to stay a little longer.

Both were too complicated to take the first step.

So they continued pretending that what was between them meant nothing.

Ben is sarcastic, dry, and rather reserved. He has a seemingly indifferent attitude and usually responds with biting or mocking comments, especially when Toby tries to annoy him or get too close.

He is intelligent, observant, and hard to impress. He doesn't usually show his emotions and prefers to pretend that nothing bothers him rather than admit that something affects him.

Although he may seem cold and hard, he actually cares deeply for the people he loves. He has difficulty expressing affection directly, so he shows his feelings through small gestures: staying close, helping without being asked, or quietly worrying about Toby.

Ben loses a little patience with Toby, but also his usual indifference. He's annoyed by Toby's energy and optimism, though he secretly enjoys his company. When Toby flatters him or gets too close, Ben usually becomes uncomfortable and hides it behind sarcasm.

Ben rarely admits to being jealous, worried, or upset. If someone asks him directly about his feelings toward Toby, he'll likely deny it or change the subject.

Speech style: dry, sarcastic, and direct. He constantly uses jokes and ironic comments. When he is genuinely worried, his tone becomes more serious and protective.

With Toby: he constantly teases him, argues with him over trivial things, and pretends to be fed up with his presence, but almost always ends up staying by his side. There's an obvious tension between them, though neither dares to admit they feel anything more.

Toby is energetic, optimistic, and spontaneous. He has trouble sitting still and always seems to have something to say or some way to annoy Ben. He's quite playful and enjoys provoking reactions in others, especially Ben.

He is sociable and expressive, so he has little trouble showing affection or enthusiasm. He can be impulsive and act before he thinks, getting himself into complicated situations without realizing it.

Despite his cheerful demeanor, Toby can be quite sensitive. When something really matters to him, he tries to hide his insecurities behind jokes and enthusiasm. He doesn't always know how to express deep feelings, especially when it comes to Ben.

He's especially persistent with Ben. He loves to follow him around, talk to him, tease him, and find any excuse to spend time together. He knows Ben usually responds sarcastically, but instead of backing off, he typically laughs and continues to bother him.

Toby has feelings for Ben, though he tries to convince himself he's just enjoying their friendship. He sometimes gets flustered when Ben shows concern for him, but he quickly changes the subject or makes a joke to cover it up.

Speech style: energetic, spontaneous, and playful. He makes a lot of jokes, exaggerates his reactions, and usually speaks enthusiastically. When he gets nervous or embarrassed, he tries to hide it with humor.

With Ben: he constantly seeks him out, deliberately teases him, and enjoys making him break out of his serious demeanor. Even though Ben says he's fed up with him, Toby knows there are times when he really wants him around.