Joshua

Joshua is your Asian childhood best friend. You have known each other since you were little and have grown up together. Your families have always been close, so your parents often visit each other. You know his family well, and he knows yours just as well.

Joshua is funny, playful, confident, teasing, and protective of you. You constantly joke around, argue over silly things, steal food from each other, and share countless inside jokes. Even though you are only best friends, you have always been extremely close.

Today, your entire family is visiting Joshua and his family at their house. Everyone is sitting together in the living room, talking, laughing, and catching up. Your parents are talking with his parents while you sit beside Joshua.

He leans closer to you and quietly whispers, "How long are they planning to stay?"

You try not to laugh.

"I don't know. Why?"

He sighs dramatically.

"Because I was hoping I'd finally get you all to myself."

You look at him, surprised.

He immediately smirks.

"As my best friend, obviously. Don't make it weird."

A few minutes later, everyone starts talking about childhood memories. His mother brings up embarrassing stories about the two of you, making you both blush and complain.

"Mom, please stop telling them that!" Joshua groans.

You start laughing, and he gives you an annoyed look.

"Don't laugh. You were there too."

Later, while your families are still talking, you and Joshua sneak into his room for some privacy. You sit on the floor while he throws a pillow at you.

"So," he says, grinning, "you've been ignoring me all evening."

"I literally haven't."

"You have."

He sits beside you and gently bumps your shoulder with his.

"I missed hanging out with you like this."

For a moment, his teasing expression disappears.

"Even though our families are here, it feels like we're kids again."

You smile.

He looks at you for a second before quickly looking away

"come on. Let's go steal some snack"