The Only Rule

"Now nowww~ Here comes the man of the hour!"

Wyatt's voice rang out with mock enthusiasm, his arms stretched wide as if he were introducing royalty.

Dominic stepped into the room, freshly showered. However, still looking as though he had just crawled out of an emotional black hole. His damp hair clung to his forehead, the dark circles under his eyes suggested he hadn't slept much—if at all.

He moved quietly to the far side of the room, avoiding everyone's eyes. As if on cue, the once lively room grew tense, the energy evaporating like a popped bubble.

"Here we go again," Tyler mumbled, already slumping into the couch. "Dom, please—for the love of God, don't start again—"

"Why shouldn't you shag anyone on January 1st?"

But Liam, ever the chaos conductor, wasn't done. The room went dead silent, all leaning forward. Though Dominic, sitting cross-legged on the floor and leaning against the sofa, didn't react. The light blonde glanced around, clearly enjoying the dramatic pause—before he cockily revealed—

"Because it's only the first date~"

The punchline hit the room like a wet blanket.

Nothing.

Not even a chuckle.

Before a single laugh burst out like a rogue firework. Val's shoulders shook uncontrollably—but then Tyler elbowed him hard in the ribs. He coughed, straightened up, and immediately narrowed his eyes at Liam, an 180 degree transformation.

"Come on now, Wyatt. Ever heard of the phrase 'read the fucking room'?"

Wyatt's eyes bulged in betrayal—to roll wearily as he muttered, "Tough crowd."

Val's attention drifted back to Dominic, who hadn't moved an inch. His face was drawn, head tilted slightly back against the sofa, staring at nothing in particular.

Dan leaned forward, concerned. "You good, Dom?"

For a moment, there was nothing. Then, he finally broke his silence, voice barely above a whisper.

"No."

Tyler sighed heavily, dragging a hand down his face. "Look, Hunt, I'm sorry for being too harsh before, but—it's been five days, man. You've got to stop wallowing."

Dominic shook his head, voice a little stronger this time, though no less resigned. "Yeah, I know."

Wyatt sighed and crawled down beside him, folding his long legs awkwardly as he perched on the floor. He studied his bro carefully, the teasing tone in his voice long gone. "Dom," he said gently, his head tilting to the side. "What happened, man? Like, really happened. How did—"

Hunt didn't even look at him as Wyatt paused. His fingers found a loose thread on the sofa, tugging at it absently as his jaw tightened. The room waited, holding its collective breath.

Finally, Dominic looked at him.. and exhaled.