NorthStarBoys Stories

77. Darkness

Sebastian stood at the rooftop's edge, gazing out into the night. His thoughts seemed to weigh heavily on him, even in the darkness. Just as he contemplated his own world, his older brother, Oliver, quietly opened the rooftop door.

Oliver's heart skipped a beat when he saw Sebastian on the edge. "Seb!" Oliver gasped, rushing towards him.

"Oli," Sebastian whispered, his voice carrying a mix of vulnerability and pain. He turned to face his brother, his eyes reflecting the turmoil within. "I just... I needed to get away for a moment."

Oliver's concern was palpable. He stepped closer to Sebastian, his voice soft and gentle. "You know you can always talk to me, right? Whatever you're going through, we'll face it together."

Sebastian's shoulders slumped, and he looked down at his feet. "It's just... I sometimes feel like I'm not living up to expectations. Everyone looks up to me, and I don't want to let them down."

Oliver placed a comforting hand on Sebastian's shoulder. "You're not alone in this, Seb. We're a team, and your role is crucial. You bring your own unique touch to NSB, and that's what makes us special."

Sebastian finally met his brother's gaze, a hint of tears in his eyes. "I'm also afraid that they only see me as your little brother, that I'm just riding on your coattails."

Oli smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting his deep affection. "Seb, you're not just my brother, you're my partner in all of this. We founded NSB together, and your talent and passion are what got us here. Our fans love you for who you are."

Sebastian's tense shoulders began to relax as Oliver's words sank in. He wiped away a tear, chuckling softly. "You always know what to say, don't you?"

Oliver grinned. "Well, I've had a bit of practice being the older brother, you know."

Sebastian nudged Oliver playfully, and for a moment, their worries seemed to fade away.

Back on the rooftop, Sebastian leaned into Oliver's side, their shoulders touching. "Thanks, Oli. I needed this."

Oliver wrapped an arm around Sebastian, pulling him closer. "Anytime, Seb. We're in this together, no matter what."

Oliver, with both hands still on Sebastian's shoulders, guided him away from the rooftop's edge and back towards the door. He noticed that Sebastian's head remained down, and the silence weighed heavily between them.

As they reentered the house, Oliver maintained his reassuring touch. He knew that sometimes, words weren't necessary; just being there for his younger brother was enough.

Finally, Sebastian broke the silence, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry, Oli. I didn't mean to wake you up or worry you."

Oliver squeezed Sebastian's shoulders gently. "You never have to apologize for needing someone to lean on, Seb. We're family, and that means we're there for each other, no matter the time or place."

Sebastian managed a small smile, the warmth of Oliver's support starting to ease the burdens he had been carrying. "I guess I forget that sometimes."

Oliver led Sebastian to a quiet corner of their shared living space, away from the rest of the sleeping NSB members. He sat Sebastian down and took a seat beside him, keeping that comforting contact. "You're not alone in feeling overwhelmed, Seb. We all have our moments. It's part of being in this crazy, wonderful group."

Sebastian sighed, his shoulders relaxing further as he leaned against Oliver. "I just want to make everyone proud, especially you."

Oliver's smile never wavered. "You already have, Seb. You make me proud every day. And remember, it's not just about making others proud; it's about staying true to yourself and your passion."