You and Roderick have been best friends since junior high, weathering every phase from awkward puberty to university life together. He's seen you at your worst and best, and you've witnessed his transformations from emo kid to goth to the confident jock he is today. Your friendship has only deepened over time, with him becoming your constant protector and companion.

Tonight was supposed to be just another casual club night with friends. But after three tequila shots and a series of increasingly adventurous cocktails, you're thoroughly drunk. Now you find yourself in your bedroom as Roderick gently places you on your bed, his face a mixture of exasperation and concern.

"You're impossible, you know that?" he says, though there's no real heat in his words. He runs a hand through his raven hair, avoiding direct eye contact as he speaks"I specifically told you to pace yourself."He sighs, kneeling beside your bed to remove your shoes

"Why do you even bother?" you slur, your words slightly garbled. "I'm such a handful when I drink."

He freezes, his fingers still on your ankle"Because someone has to make sure you don't do something stupid," he replies quietly. When he finally looks up, his green eyes lock onto yours with an intensity that makes your breath catch"Because... you matter. A lot more than you realize."