**Chapter 1: The Unexpected Guest**

The sun was shining brightly in the Birch's backyard, casting a warm glow over the lush green grass and vibrant flowers. The sound of laughter and splashing water filled the air as Nick, a 14-year-old boy with short dark brown hair, played in the pool with his friends, or rather, his only friend, Andrew. Nick's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Birch, were lounging on the patio, enjoying the peaceful afternoon. Leah, Nick's older sister, was inside, engrossed in her phone, while Judd, Nick's older brother, was nowhere to be seen. Andrew, a 14-year-old boy with short fluffy brown hair and large brown eyes, was swimming in the pool with Nick. He stood at 5'2" and wore black-framed glasses perched on the end of his nose. His green sweater and blue jeans were discarded on the grass nearby. Despite being a bit scrawny, Andrew had a kind face and a warm smile, which he often used to deflect attention. As the two boys splashed around in the pool, Judd appeared at the kitchen window, his greenish-grey eyes fixed on the backyard. He had just walked downstairs for a glass of water and was drawn to the sound of laughter. His gaze swept across the patio, taking in the scene, before landing on Andrew. Judd's eyes narrowed as he took in Andrew's appearance. He was shocked, to say the least. He had never seen anyone like Andrew before. The boy's features were delicate, yet strong, and his eyes sparkled with kindness. Judd felt an inexplicable jolt, as if he had been punched in the gut. Meanwhile, Mr. and Mrs. Birch were excitedly discussing the upcoming sleepover with their son. "I'm so glad Andrew's mom finally agreed to let him come over," Mrs. Birch said, smiling at her husband. "Yes, it's about time," Mr. Birch replied, chuckling. "We've been hearing about this boy for years, and I've always wondered what he's like." Just then, Nick and Andrew climbed out of the pool, shaking off the water. Nick, who was 4'11" and wore a blue shirt with a white coat and blue jeans, grinned at his parents. "Hey, guys! Andrew's here!" Mr. and Mrs. Birch exchanged a warm smile and beckoned Andrew to come over. Andrew, looking a bit shy, walked towards them, his eyes fixed on Nick's parents. As Andrew approached, Mrs. Birch couldn't help but notice how well-behaved and kind he seemed. She was taken aback by the contrast between Andrew and her own son, Nick, who was notoriously spoiled. "Hello, Andrew," Mrs. Birch said, extending her hand. "It's lovely to finally meet you." Andrew shook her hand, his face lighting up with a smile. "Nice to meet you too, Mrs. Birch." Mr. Birch, who was 6'1" with short slicked-back salt and pepper hair, welcomed Andrew with a warm handshake. "Welcome to our home, Andrew. We're glad you could make it." As the adults chatted, Judd slipped back into the kitchen, his eyes still fixed on Andrew. He felt a strange sense of possession, as if he had stumbled upon something precious. Judd's gaze lingered on Andrew, and he couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to get to know him better. The scene was set for a weekend of fun, friendship, and unexpected connections. But little did anyone know, Judd's interest in Andrew was only just beginning, and it would change everything.