My fraternal twin brother, Luca, is just a few minutes older than me. He is very much the protective big brother and reckless when it comes to his own safety.
Regardless of our age, we've been connected at the hip. As teenagers, we've separated a little more. Making friends and spending time apart.
And sneaking away to text each other that we'd rather be somewhere else together.
I enjoy my time with friends. But. There's just something about being a twin that I can't explain. A deeper bond where everything is understood without explanation.
It's a huge reason why we chose to attend the same college. We'll be 12 hours from home and that's easier to do together.
Luca's best friend Corbin was accepted to the same college. I'm convinced he's in love with Luca. He'd never admit it unless Luca expressed his undying love first. Which will never happen.
We've been an awkward platonic throuple for a while. Obviously, Luca and I look alike. He's a lot taller. I'm 5' 6" and he's 6'1". Our features are the same. Brown eyes, full lips and brows, long eyelashes, curly brown hair, dimples, and an identical, up to no good grin.
Corbin is 5'10". Golden straight blond hair, hazel eyes, and what he likes to call a "sleeper build". He's slim and muscular. Standard hockey player build.
Luca and I turned 19 shortly before graduation. I spent most of the summer with my friends. A few are headed out west for school. Beach days, riding tubes down the river, smoking weed with guys in the woods, and going to parties.
One Saturday night in late June, I'm home alone when Luca and Corbin come in through the garage.
"Hello?! Layla?! Laaaaay-laaaaaaaah."
Their voices are echoing down the hallway as I rush to get up. I can hear Luca taking off his shoes. If I don't answer, they'll both be in my room before I can shut the door.
"Coming! I'm...just stay out there!"
I whip around the corner to the kitchen just in time to stop Luca in his tracks.
"Where is everyone?"
I point to the calendar on the fridge. Our parents took our younger siblings to their travel games. James is 13 and Tegan is 11. Our parents put all of us kids in sports. Never had a calm weekend my entire childhood. They'll be home tomorrow.
Luca and I aren't playing sports in college. We were awarded academic scholarships. Our parents said we can still play sports but academics is the main focus.
I played volleyball. It kept me busy and in great shape. I found a club on campus that meets twice a week. Which leaves me so much time for other things. It's a relief to have free time.
"Did you guys find out who your roommates are?"
Corbin is beside himself that his request to room with Luca wasn't approved. Even worse. They're not in the same dorm. It's a travesty.
"Honestly, Corbin. I'm shocked you're feeling okay enough to bring it up. You'll be three whole buildings away from Luca."
Luca grabs a pillow and quickly whips it at my head. I catch it and smile. It's all for show. Even Corbin knows I'm priority.
"It doesn't make any sense why your dorm is right behind Luca's and mine is on the other side of the hill."
"Corbin, it makes perfect sense that you're in the hockey dorm. You're on an athletic scholarship. Makes sense they put you with the rest of the freshman players."
Corbin's head drops slightly. And people say I'm the dramatic one.
"Dude. It'll be fine. We have classes together."
Corbin perks up as Luca pats his shoulder.
"Ahhh bromance. It's so sweet."
Luca shoots me daggers as I shrug. Couldn't help it. I rarely hold back when I have a shot at Corbin.
We make some food and head downstairs to the basement. Our parents created the ultimate teen hangout in our basement. Entertainment center, pool table, foosball table, movies, games, PS5, Xbox and more.
Our house is the hangout house.
Corbin is no stranger to our home. He's been friends with Luca since 5th grade. We slip out the back door of the basement and get high before watching a movie.
Tonight, is the night everything changed between the three of us.
As the indica is hitting, Corbin has a smirk on his face that I don't like. Means he's got an idea. I've seen this look countless times. 50/50 shot I'll hate whatever he's going to say next.
"Do you guys want to play a game?"
Luca and I look at each other and shrug.
"Truth or dare?"
Luca gives me a curious glance. I pull a stink face. This is the game you play at a party. Not with three people who spend too much time together.
"Why? There's only three of us and we know too much about each other."
Corbin sighs in frustration.
"When will you two just trust me?"
I cross my arms and roll my eyes.
"When your ideas end well. Which has yet to happen, Corbin."
I sink into the sofa and turn on the TV.
Corbin sits on the coffee table opposite me.
"One last time, Layla. It's been so long since we played a dumb game."
"It's not the game. It's the fact you want to play it."
Luca places the food on the coffee table behind Corbin and hands me a water.
"Why can't we just watch a movie? Layla already has some lined up."
Corbin groans as he stands in front of the TV.
"You guys are so boring! 20 minutes is all I'm asking for."
He gives us a pleading look. Silently looking back and forth between us until Luca breaks the silence.
"Okay..."
I nod. It can't be that bad if he only needs 20 minutes.
The first couple rounds are typical. Regrets, embarrassment, silly dares, and so on. We've lost track of time as the weed makes me giggle every time Luca and Corbin make the tiniest joke.
It's Corbin's turn and his eyes change. His hazel eyes darken. I knew he was up to something. Is he sober? More sober than us?
Luca and I are sitting closely on the couch. Corbin on the loveseat to our left.
Before I can warn him, Luca picks dare. Corbin smiles a nasty grin.
"I dare you to kiss Layla."
Luca laughs for a moment. Puts his arm gently on my shoulder, and kisses me on the cheek.
"That doesn't count."
Luca sighs and kisses me quickly on the lips."
I turn to Corbin and see the mischievous look is still there. It's not over yet.
"Layla, truth or dare."
My heartrate increases. Luca gently squeezes my arm as he waits for me to answer.
"Truth."
Corbin looks at my brother for a few moments.
"Have you and Luca ever crossed the line sexually?"
I freeze and Luca's hand stops. I look at my brother out of the corner of my eye. His breathing increases slightly.
"We promised not to..." I say softly.
"Layla don't."