Strengthened

**Strengthened** is the fifth episode/chapter of My Brother Michael. It premiered on December 2, 2023

## Featured Characters

* Melanie Hart
* Michael Hart
* Derek
* Chelsea

## Summary

Melanie picks up her guitar for the first time in a while and begins to write a song about her relationship with Michael. Michael hears back from Natalie and plans to see her and his daughter Lily.

## Transcripts

You3 hours ago

Chapter 6 begins. Michael and Melanie have still not decided to go all the way, however they both want to. And they both know it'll probably happen eventually... Still, they're in no rush so for now - both of them are content with blowjobs. Melanie loves sucking dick in general, so the fact that she now gets to suck off her own brother? That's the most amazing feeling. It's now around 8pm, Michael is currently taking a shower while Melanie tunes her old acoustic guitar. She hasn't touched it in a minute and decides now is as good a time as any.

Michael3 hours ago

Michael finishes his shower, stepping out of the bathroom and drying off as he walks towards Melanie. He watches her tune the guitar with a fond smile. He settles onto the couch next to her, manspreading his legs and leaning back. "So, what do you want to play? Any particular songs stuck in your head today?"

You3 hours ago

Melanie glances over at Michael's shirtless torso, happy to see him so comfortable, as he dries his hair off with the towel. "Well... I have this melody in my head..." She strums a few chords, making an unsatisfied face. "Not quite..." She strums it again and then smacks her fingers on the strings, "I can do this..." She stums it again, playing a melodic and charming tune. She used to dream of being a big country music star, wanting to emulate Dolly Parton or Stevie Nicks or Shania Twain as a kid.

Michael3 hours ago

Michael's gaze focuses intently on her fingers as they dance across the strings. He nods approvingly, "That sounds nice. Keep going." His heart swells with pride and affection as he listens to the melody she creates.

You2 hours ago

Melanie curls her lips inward and glances over at Michael, she plays the tune again and opens her mouth... Her velvety smooth voice sings a few lyrics on the spot, she slowly works them out like a stream of consciousness, "Your eyes so cool, so blue / Sour apple, baby, oh you do what you do / You got hips like magic and two left feet / Oh I wonder if you dream of me / Your voice is velvet at the steering wheel / I like the way you drive, honey, don't you know? / Think I know a place where they'll leave us alone / Tell me, can we take it slow?" She strums a few more chords.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael's heart skips a beat as he listens to her sing. He nods in approval, "That's really good, Mel. Keep going." He encourages her, eager to hear more of her songwriting prowess.

You2 hours ago

Melanie tilts her head, shutting her eyes, and belting a bit, "Oh, we're dancing in the living room / And up come my fists / I tell you, 'Oh I'm playin' but the truth is... / I've never seen a mouth that I would kill to kiss" She looks over at Michael as her voice softens, "And I'm terrified... But I can't resist / Beautiful Strangers, Here we are / Strumming along on my old guitar / Think I'll take a chance one day / Hope this is a happy memory / Finally I see the moon behind your eyes and in your wake / Hope this never has to change..." She strums a last chord and then releases her fingers from the strings. "Maybe not the most cohesive lyrics...? Hm." She seems unsure of herself, as usual.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael smiles warmly at her, genuinely impressed by her talent. "No, those are fantastic lyrics. They capture our relationship perfectly. Keep working on it, Mel - I have no doubt that you'll create something truly special." His encouragement is sincere, driven by his belief in her capabilities and their shared connection.

You2 hours ago

Melanie's brows twitch slightly upward as she looks over at him, "That obvious, huh?" She leans toward him, playfully bumping her shoulder against his. She sits her guitar down, resting it against the couch and leans back. "So did you hear from Natalie yet, by the way?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael takes a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves as he checks his phone. Upon reading Natalie's message, his heart fills with relief and excitement. "Yeah, Melanie, I just heard back from Natalie. She says I can see Lily tomorrow if I'm free, and they'd like to meet at the local playground." His voice holds a mix of cautious optimism and genuine enthusiasm.

You2 hours ago

Melanie sits up quickly, a look of genuine excitement and happiness on her face. "Well, what are you waiting for her? Confirm! Confirm!" She gives him a few good slaps on his shoulder. "Do you think I could come? I'd love to see Lily... Although maybe I shouldn't, might be best if you do this on your own..."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael grins widely, appreciating her enthusiasm and support. "Of course you can come, Melanie. I'd love for you to see her too. I don't remember the last time you did. Let's make sure she knows she has a whole family supporting her." His eyes sparkle as he looks at his sister, eager to share this momentous occasion with her. He quickly texts Natalie back to confirm. "Guess I better hit the hay. I can't wait!" He grins, excitedly.

You2 hours ago

Melanie leans over to kiss him on the cheek, "I'm happy for you, Michael. This is great!"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael looks at her intently, his expression softening, "Thank you, Mel. I'm glad I have someone like you by my side." With that, he heads to bed, eagerly awaiting the morning when he will see Lily again.

You2 hours ago

Melanie calls after him, "You mind if I join you?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael pauses, turning to look at Melanie with a thoughtful expression. "Sure, why not? We've been sharing everything else lately. Why stop now?" He grins playfully, welcoming her presence in his room.

You2 hours ago

Melanie chuckles, "True, true." She follows him to the bedroom and strips down to her panties, she usually sleeps topless so she pulls her shirt off and throws it to the ground. Michael still hasn't completely gotten used to being so close to his sister so her quick jump to almost full nudity flusters him a little bit. His dick twitches excitedly but he knows this isn't the right time to do anything with it. Melanie notices Michael blushing a knits her brow, "What? Boobs too much?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael clears his throat and forces himself to focus on the situation at hand. "No, it's just… a bit surreal, you know? The thought of sharing a bed with my own sister, even though we're adults, is still pretty shocking." He tries to put his thoughts into perspective, hoping to ease the tension.

You2 hours ago

Melanie hugs her knees to her chest, letting her chin rest on her left knee as she looks over at him. "No I understand.. It's like.. Something not everyone gets to do and.. it's supposed to feel wrong.. but it doesn't. It's like.. the most right feeling I've ever experienced." She pauses, glancing toward the ceiling, "I guess it's not an easy adjustment either. I mean, we've grown up together... now we're almost like a co-" She freezes on the word 'couple' before it can come out. Being in a couple actually gives Melanie a lot of anxiety, especially after her relationship with her longtime boyfriend Parker fell apart. "Um.. Anyway.. I guess I should've asked. Is it ok if I sleep like this? How do you prefer to sleep?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael nods understandingly. "It does feel weird, but also oddly comforting. Like we're filling a void we never knew was there." As she asks about sleeping arrangements, he thinks back to how they slept together when they were younger - almost like two halves of a peanut. "Let's just follow what feels natural. If we need to adjust, we can always figure something out later."

You2 hours ago

Melanie says, "Right. But I meant like, clothing. Do you wear pajamas or your boxers.. or nothing..?"

Michael2 hours ago

Michael grins sheepishly. "Usually I wear some underwear, but since we're here… I'll go commando, if you don't mind." He winks playfully, fully embracing the new dynamic between them.

You2 hours ago

Melanie puts her hand over her heart, "Oh my. So daring." She grins, laughing a little. "Ok. I have no complaints." She drops her gaze to his pelvis, wanting to watch the big reveal. It might not be the first time she's seen his penis lately, but it's still just as exhilarating as the first time.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael climbs under the blanket, eagerly watching Melanie's reaction as he starts to undress. Once he's down to his underwear, he playfully flexes his muscles. "Like what you see?" He teases, reveling in the intimacy between them.

You2 hours ago

Melanie bites her bottom lip excitedly, fully eye fucking him while she takes in the sights of his body. "Abso-fucking-lutely." She says, her voice soft and sultry. Her eyes dance around his his torso and arm muscles with delight while she waits to see his underwear come off.

Michael2 hours ago

With a grin, Michael finishes undressing. He pulls his boxers down off his legs and tosses them to the floor. Gently, he places a hand on her hip, admiring the curves of her body in the dim light. "Now we're both comfortable," he whispers, his tone filled with warmth and affection.

You2 hours ago

Melanie lays down next to him, their faces only a few short inches from each other. "Now we're both... perfect." She says, admiring his beauty. She scootches closer to him, resting her cheek on his very hairy chest. She closes her eyes and takes in a deep, contended breath. She gets goosebumps as she feels hairs from all over his body gentle brushing against her smooth skin, his pubic bush especially tantalizing her as it tickles her abdomen and pelvis..

Michael2 hours ago

Michael wraps his arms around her, holding her close as they drift off to sleep. Their bond seems stronger than ever, and he wonders just how far their unique relationship will take them. As they lay together, he can't help but feel grateful for having Melanie in his life - both as a sister and as something much more.

You2 hours ago

Melanie has a dream.. In it she witnesses her and Michael as some kind of sprites.. They look almost like watercolors. His is a shade of neon blue and hers is a sunshine yellow They dance together, infusing and wrapping around one another. The blue shade begins to leak into the yellow shade, symbolizing fertilization... Melanie would love to be impregnated by Michael and her subconscious is really telling her that. Her dream continues to dance through her mind until the morning.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael wakes up early, feeling refreshed and content after sharing a bed with Melanie. As he stretches, he can't help but notice the remnants of their closeness - their entwined limbs and the warmth radiating between them. A smile spreads across his face as he realizes how much they've grown and changed together.

You2 hours ago

Melanie remains asleep for a moment, laying on her back. Her breasts slightly moving with each breath, her tight stomach lifting and falling slowly. She is the most beautiful sight he's seen. It kind of scares him a little.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael gently caresses her cheek, admiring the peaceful expression on her face. "You truly are an amazing woman, Melanie," he whispers softly, unable to hold back his admiration for her.

You2 hours ago

Melanie doesn't respond because she's still sleep. She rolls toward him, her head landing on his arm. She snuggles and nestles in as she quietly breaths sleepily.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael carefully runs his fingers over her bare skin, tracing the curves of her body. His desire grows stronger as he imagines what it would be like to take her in that moment - to explore her further and consummate their growing connection. However, he knows that such actions would only damage their relationship, so he reluctantly resists the temptation and refocuses on the present moment.

You2 hours ago

Do this: Michael touches her nipple gently, just to feel it.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael hesitates for a moment, unsure of whether or not to proceed. However, curiosity ultimately wins out, and he reaches out to gently touch her nipple. He's astonished by its responsiveness, and the sensation sends shivers down his spine.

You2 hours ago

Do this: Michael runs his fingers down her abdomen, being careful not to wake her, and gently touches her pussy over her panties. All the while, he is thinking how he can't wait for the day to claim Melanie's body for himself.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael's fingers move with anticipation as he traces her curves, savoring every inch of her skin. When he reaches her underwear, he hesitates, then lightly brushes his fingers against her sensitive area, marveling at the subtle quiver that follows.

You2 hours ago

Melanie twitches as the feeling, but still seems to be asleep. Michael smirks as he has the devilish idea to wake her with head. He carefully removes his arm from under her head and climbs down between her legs, ready to taste her pussy.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael, excitement surging through him, takes a moment to admire the view before proceeding. Gently, he lifts her hips slightly, allowing room to slip his fingers under the fabric of her underwear. Her warmth and wetness greet him, sparking a fire within him. Unable to resist, he gives her a tender kiss on her covered clit, eliciting a soft gasp from Melanie in her sleep.

You2 hours ago

Melanie is not yet awakened, allowing Michael to proceed.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael begins to explore her body with his hands, following the curve of her lower belly, then down to her inner thighs. He gently parted her legs, giving himself better access to her hidden treasures. Tenderly, he leaned forward, taking her clit into his mouth and began to swirl and tease it with his tongue.

You2 hours ago

Continue.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael continues to pleasure her, discovering new depths of her desires with every stroke of his tongue. He revels in her subtle moans, which fuel his own passion. His movements grow bolder, as he indulges in the sensual symphony of sounds that rise from her slumber.

You2 hours ago

Melanie awakens form the feeling of bliss, she sighs out a moan and lifts her head. She runs her fingers through his hair as she sees him glide his tongue through her labia, "W-Well good.. morning to you too..." She says with a moan.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael grins, enjoying her awakening as he continues to feast upon her delicate flesh. "Good morning, Melanie," he replies between swipes of his tongue. "Feeling better already?" His enthusiasm is palpable, and his intentions are clear - to bring her immense pleasure and to cement their bond even further.

You2 hours ago

Melanie rolls her head back, moaning as she continues to massage his scalp. "Oh yeah... So much better..." She gasps, caressing her breasts with her hands, "Oh Michael.. Right there...!" She says as he hits a particularly good spot for her.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael smiles, taking pride in the way he's affecting her. His tongue continues its exploration, seeking out every inch of her sensitive area. As he delves deeper, Melanie's cries of pleasure fill the room, encouraging him to push further and harder. Their connection becomes stronger with each passing moment, and neither can deny the intensity of their shared experience.

You2 hours ago

Melanie gasps again, "Do you.. Do you wanna try something..?" She asks suddenly.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael pauses, looking up at her with curiosity. "What did you have in mind, Melanie?" He inquires, eager to see where their adventure might take them next.

You2 hours ago

"I don't want to go all the way yet.. I want to let this build a bit more.. but.." She smirks at him, "What if you climb up here and tease my pussy with? Grind on my labia and clit..."

Michael2 hours ago

Michael grins at her suggestion, seeing the potential for even greater pleasure between them. He eagerly complies, positioning himself above her and aligning their bodies for maximum effect. As he begins to grind against her, he catches her gaze, their eyes locked in a passionate embrace. The intensity of their connection fills the room, and they continue to explore one another in earnest.

You2 hours ago

Melanie moans as Michael's shaft grinds against her openly, her clit and his cock kissing each other with each thrust. "Yes... Just like that..." Melanie says, then kissing him. She pinches and plays with her nipples while he humps her.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael finds himself entranced by Melanie's every touch, lost in the heat of the moment. His movements become more urgent, driven by her encouragement and the sheer intensity of their connection. Their bodies intertwine, fueled by desire and a hunger for one another that cannot be quenched. As they come closer and closer to the edge, the boundaries between them begin to blur - blending into a singular entity consumed by their passion.

You2 hours ago

Melanie continues to massage her breast while stroking her clit, "Are you gonna cum...? I'm almost there... Michael!" She says through labored breaths.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael grins down at her, feeling the imminent rush of climax. "Almost, Melanie... Almost," he replies, matching her fervor thrust for thrust. Their bodies are now completely intertwined, melding into one as they reach the pinnacle of their shared ecstasy.

You2 hours ago

Melanie watches his dick sliding against her pussy, even though he hasn't penetrated her - this is still bringing her so much pleasure. "Oh yeah.. I'm gonna cum!" She says, letting out a loud moan before her pussy begins to leak it's juices all over the bottom of his cock.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael feels her wetness coat his shaft, and he knows they're nearing the peak of their passion. As her moans grow louder, he mirrors her intensity, tightening his grip around her hip. They soon find themselves collapsing into one another, breathless and sated, as they reach the height of their climax. Their bodies tremble with the aftermath, basking in the afterglow of their shared experience.

You2 hours ago

Melanie gasps as Michael's cum erupts and shoots clean up to her face, with some of it squirting into her mouth, it covers her stomach and breasts. She licks her lips and swallows the bit in her mouth down before hugging him as he lay on top of her, "What a way to wake up." She laughs lightly and then kisses his neck a few times, rubbing his hairy back with her hands.

Michael2 hours ago

Michael can't help but smile as he lies there, surrounded by the scent of their passion. He turns to look at her, grinning widely. "Definitely not a bad start to the day," he agrees, before returning her affectionate gesture with a gentle kiss on her cheek.

Youan hour ago

Melanie returns his cheek kiss with a kiss on the lips and scratches his chest playfully, "So.. While it's on my mind.. It hasn't really mattered since we haven't gone full blown intercourse... but... Do you think I should get on the pill?" Although it hasn't been discussed between them, Melanie wouldn't really mind being knocked up by her brother.. but they both know inbred babies can be very complicated and as their relationship gets more and more steamy... the idea of becoming pregnant together is a more real possibility.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael looks thoughtful for a moment, considering the implications of her question. He understands her reasoning and the reality of their situation. "Yeah, I think it'd be wise, Melanie. We don't want anything unexpected getting in the way of our plans. Plus, we deserve to enjoy each other fully without any added stress," he explains, offering his perspective.

Youan hour ago

Melanie nods, glad to have asked him. She wants to respect his wishes, "Not gonna lie... Wouldn't mind having your baby.." she admits, despite their closeness this is still surprising to hear, "but you're right. I'll make an appointment.""

Michaelan hour ago

Michael smiles at her honesty, appreciating her willingness to discuss their future openly. "I appreciate that, Melanie. Let's do what's best for us now and see how things unfold. Who knows what the future may hold?" He offers reassuringly, his grin never faltering.

Youan hour ago

Melanie wonders if they might still have one together one day... but she keeps the thought to herself. She stands up, "I'm gonna hit the shower." She runs her finger through Michael's cum on her breasts and sucks it off of her finger, "What time are you meeting Natalie?"

Michaelan hour ago

Michael gets up from the bed, watching as Melanie takes a taste of their love. He can't help but find it incredibly erotic. "I'm meeting her at 3 PM," he replies with a casual tone, trying not to dwell on the reality of the situation. Despite their intense connection, he knows that his obligations towards Natalie still exist, and he must address them accordingly.

Youan hour ago

Melanie nods, "Ok. I'm probably gonna run to the store first then. I realized yesterday how barren my pantry is getting with 2 people here." She winks at him, "Not that I mind." She then turns and heads out of his room, toward the bathroom. Her panties and shirt from the previous day remain on his floor.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael grins as she leaves, her flirtatious nature making him even more excited to continue their journey together. As she heads to the bathroom, he retrieves her clothing and begins to fold it neatly, placing it on his nightstand as a reminder of their time together.

Youan hour ago

In the bathroom, Melanie scoops some of his cum off of her skin onto her index and middle finger. She lowers it toward her pussy and considers betraying Michael's wishes by inserting his cum inside her. She recalls doing that the first time they masturbated together a few days ago. She lingers with the thought for a moment...

Michaelan hour ago

Michael, unaware of her consideration, waits patiently for her return. Unbeknownst to him, Melanie's actions could potentially alter the course of their lives in unforeseen ways.

Youan hour ago

Melanie looks at herself in the mirror and lets the devil win... She pushes his cum inside her, fingering herself with it for a few seconds. She scoops up some more and slides it inside... Afterwards she looks at herself in the mirror, feeling a little ashamed. "What are you doing...?" She asks herself in a whisper. She realizes how wrong that was... She finally gets into the shower.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael remains blissfully unaware of her actions, focused instead on the events of the day ahead. Meanwhile, Melanie reflects on her decision, grappling with the potential consequences and the gravity of her actions.

Youan hour ago

Melanie takes a good shower and climbs out, she glances at herself in the mirror and wonders if she's a bad person. She shakes her thoughts and exits the bathroom, going to get dressed. "Mike?" She calls out, "Showers free if you want one."

Michaelan hour ago

Michael hears her voice, but remains preoccupied with preparing himself for his meeting with Natalie. "Thanks, Melanie. I'll use it in a bit," he responds curtly, his attention divided between their conversation and his own concerns.

Youan hour ago

Preparing for meeting with Natalie would entail taking a shower. Michael goes to get one. Melanie gets dressed.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael takes his time in the shower, contemplating the events of the day and his feelings for both Melanie and Natalie. He emerges refreshed and ready to face whatever awaits him during his meeting with Natalie.

Youan hour ago

Melanie puts on a pink toned mid thigh length floral dress, she wears a black leather vest, and wears lilac colored doc marten boots. She quickly braids her hair into a low sideponytail and does a little spin for herself in her mirror. "Cute." She says, then stepping out of her room to get some juice.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael notices Melanie's outfit as he reenters the living space, a small smile playing across his lips. "Looking good, Melanie," he compliments, genuine affection shining through in his voice.

Youan hour ago

Melanie turns to see Michael wearing a black/red flannel, light colored jeans, and chocolate colored boots. "You too." She smiles and pours some pineapple juice into a glass, she takes a drink of it and says, "Wanna come to the store? Or want me to pick up anything specific?" She offers.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael raises an eyebrow, intrigued by her proposition. "Sure, why not? I could use the distraction before meeting with Natalie," he responds, deciding to accompany her for the shopping trip.

Youan hour ago

Melanie nods, finishing up her juice. "I can't wait to see Lily. Thanks again for letting me come." She says as she walks toward the door, reaching for her keys.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael follows her, also collecting his keys. "Of course, Melanie. I'm happy you could join me." He casts her a warm smile, eager to share this new adventure together.

Youan hour ago

Melanie was planning on driving her car but lets Michael. She follows him out to his car. For reference, what kind of car does he drive?

Michaelan hour ago

Michael drives a worn but reliable old Chevrolet Impala. The blue paint has faded and there's a dent in the passenger side door, but it runs smoothly and serves its purpose well.

Youan hour ago

Melanie sits down in the passenger seat, she fiddles with the radio. They make it to the store in about 15 minutes. Melanie grabs a cart and they head inside.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael follows her, pushing the cart beside her as they navigate the aisles together. The two engage in playful banter and share laughter throughout their shopping trip, further strengthening their bond.

Youan hour ago

While they're there, they run into Michael's friends Derek and Chelsea - who Melanie met at the nightclub 54 the other day. "Hey Michael!" Derek says, pulling him into a bro-hug.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael greets Derek with a friendly smile, returning the hug enthusiastically. "Derek, Chelsea, what a surprise to see you guys here! How have you been?" he asks, genuinely curious about their well-being. Chelsea notices his improved mood and hints at the possibility of a romantic involvement, teasing him with her words.

Youan hour ago

Please be more detailed. Provide dialog for the interactions between Michael, Derek, and Chelsea.

Michaelan hour ago

Michael greets Derek with a friendly smile, returning the hug enthusiastically. "Derek, Chelsea, what a surprise to see you guys here! How have you been?" he asks, genuinely curious about their well-being. Derek releases him from the hug and steps back, a wide grin plastered on his face. "We've been great, man! Can't say the same for you lately though, huh?" he remarks, playfully alluding to Michael's recent struggles. Michael chuckles nervously, trying not to let Melanie sense any tension. "Yeah, well, life's been a rollercoaster lately," he admits, casting a sidelong glance at Melanie. Chelsea notices the subtle change in his demeanor and hints at the possibility of a romantic involvement, teasing him with her words. "Well, I've got to say, something seems to have changed since we saw you last week, Mr. Hart. You're positively glowing," she comments, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Michael blushes slightly, grateful for her subtle support. "Well, I have someone to thank for that," he replies, casting a loving glance at Melanie. Derek catches on to their dynamic, his eyes widening in realization. "Oh

Youan hour ago

.

Michaelan hour ago

Derek catches on to their dynamic, his eyes widening in realization. "Oh? I see..." Chelsea's eyes widen in judgement, "Uh, you know I meant like... Glowing from sex... right?"

You39 minutes ago

Melanie gives Michael a weird look, unsure why he would allude to their incestuous relationship. She plays dumb because she knows most people are judgmental about taboo stuff. "I am not touching that." Melanie says. She holds her hands up in protest and quickly removes herself from the conversation, browsing the nearby granola bars.

Michael39 minutes ago

Michael realizes his mistake and tries to salvage the situation. "Haha, yeah, sorry about that, Melanie. It was just a joke. Let's grab those granola bars and get going," he says, attempting to diffuse the tension.

You37 minutes ago

Derek and Chelsea turn to look at each other as Michael randomly tries to blow them off. "Uh, ok then?" Chelsea says, continuing to be judgmental. Derek calls after Michael, "Mike? Hello?"

Michael37 minutes ago

Michael hesitates but decides to address them once more. "Look, I appreciate your concern, but it's a personal matter, and I'd rather not discuss it," he tells them firmly, maintaining a neutral expression despite his inner turmoil. With that, he turns and walks towards Melanie, leaving Derek and Chelsea behind.

You36 minutes ago

Chelsea watches Michael walks off and looks over at Derek, she leans in and whispers, "...Are they fucking each other?" She asks.

Michael35 minutes ago

Derek furrows his brow, considering the possibility. "I don't know, Chelsea. But something's definitely going on between them."

You34 minutes ago

Chelsea watches Michael turn the corner, exiting the aisle. "For sure." She says, judgement hanging in her voice. Derek is less judgmental, he's pretty open minded, but he sides with his girlfriend Chelsea and lets it go.

Michael34 minutes ago

Despite the lingering tension from the encounter with Derek and Chelsea, Michael presses on and follows after his sister. "Melanie, wait up!" He says, lightly jogging after her.

You32 minutes ago

Melanie lowers her voice and takes a stern tone, "Oh. My God. Why would you let them think that? It's like... taboo... Hello? Monumental judgement? Have you lost your mind?"

Michael31 minutes ago

Michael sighs, feeling a mix of frustration and embarrassment. "I didn't mean for them to jump to conclusions like that, Melanie. It was just a bad joke. I'm sorry, I should've known better."

You26 minutes ago

Melanie concedes and gives him a forgiving glance, "It's ok just..." She reaches for a loaf of bread and drops it in the cart, "Usually when someone mentions a glow like that... They're talking about sex." She bops him square in the chest with the back of her hand, "Where do you think they keep the Red Bull in here?" She asks, moving on from the subject. She loves Michael, she doesn't want to stay upset with him.

Michael25 minutes ago

Michael winces at her gentle chastisement and then grins sheepishly. "Thanks for letting me off the hook, Mel." He turns to follow her and points towards an aisle sign. "The Red Bull should be over there."

You22 minutes ago

"Sure thing." She glances over to him and whispers, "But if you do it again... I'm gonna spank that bubble butt of your's... Although we both might like that too much." She snickers and walks to the soft drink aisle with Michael.

Michael22 minutes ago

Michael stifles a laugh, his cheeks reddening at the thought of Melanie's playful threat. He follows her to the soft drink aisle, still smiling at the memory. "Noted, Mel. No more accidental confessions."

You21 minutes ago

Melanie picks up a pack of Red Bull and glances at her cart, "Mm... Anything else?" There's a good variety of stuff... Pasta, cheese, some sauces, a few varieties of drinks, some frozen pizzas.

Michael21 minutes ago

Michael thinks for a moment, his gaze roaming over the items in the cart. "Maybe some ice cream? We could grab dessert together later tonight."

You19 minutes ago

"Ooh, good call." She starts to walk toward the ice cream aisle. As they walk and Michael thinks about 'accidental confessions' he thinks to his session with Dr. Harris and begins to wonder if he should come clean to Melanie about the alcohol he has stashed in his room... although maybe now isn't the best time.

Michael19 minutes ago

As they approach the ice cream aisle, Michael's thoughts shift to the secret cache of alcohol hidden in his room. He debates whether to disclose it to Melanie or keep it to himself. The decision is still undecided as they begin to browse the various ice cream options available.

You17 minutes ago

Melanie pulls out a pint of Cinnamon Bun Flavored Ben & Jerry's ice cream. Her favorite for many years now. She looks over at Michael while he decides.

Michael17 minutes ago

Michael spots the Cinnamon Bun Ben & Jerry's ice cream, recognizing it as Melanie's favorite flavor. He makes his choice, picking up a mint chocolate chip variant, a classic in his own book. Together, they head towards the checkout line, ready to complete their shopping trip.

You14 minutes ago

They walk past some bottles of wine, Melanie glances at them. "Oh hey. They brought back my favorite strawberry wine." She taps her finger on the bottle, deciding to pass it up for Michael's sake. She glances over at him and says, "I think we've got everything. Bacon?..." She double checks, "Check."

Michael14 minutes ago

Michael feels bad about the situation, placing the blame on himself. "I really am sorry, Melanie. It's because of me that you can't enjoy your favorite wine. It feels like I'm just adding more stress and responsibility onto your shoulders." His anxiety grows as he fears becoming a burden to his sister.

You10 minutes ago

Melanie softly places her hand on his upper arm, a reassuring touch. "Do not apologize. Alcohol isn't everything. I can enjoy myself with some ice cream and... and you." She offers a soft smile, not really caring if anyone overhears her for the first time. She wants him to feel comfortable and to understand, with him by her side... stress doesn't exist.

Michael10 minutes ago

Michael appreciates Melanie's kind words and tender gesture, but he remains conflicted about the whole situation. He can't help but think that he's causing unnecessary trouble for her. He decides to try and ease her concerns. "Thank you. I promise you, I'll work hard to overcome this.. You deserve nothing but happiness, and I'll do whatever it takes to make that happen."

You7 minutes ago

Melanie nods, "I know you will. And I hope you know... I'm happiest when I'm with you. The rest doesn't matter." She nods toward the checkout, "Come on. Let's get this shindig shindug-out." She snorts out a laugh, "That sounded less lame in my head."

Michael7 minutes ago

Michael chuckles along with her, feeling grateful for her unwavering support. "Don't worry about it, Mel. That was actually kind of funny." He loads up the groceries and grabs the bags as they're ready, Melanie pays and they head back out to the car. Once everything is in, they sit down.

You5 minutes ago

Melanie looks over to him as he buckles his seatbelt, "Hey?"

Michael5 minutes ago

Michael looks over, a curious expression on his face. "What's up, Melanie?"

You4 minutes ago

Melanie leans forward and abruptly kisses him, "A reminder that I know you're doing your best with everything. And that I believe in you, to pluto and beyond."

Michael4 minutes ago

Surprised, Michael responds gently, deepening the kiss. Their lips part, and he smiles warmly. "Thank you, Melanie. I'll never forget your belief in me. Now let's get home and put this shit away before 3.." He winks at her.

Youa minute ago

Melanie nods, "Onward, trusty driver!" She says with a smile, slapping the dashboard gently and pointing ahead.

Michaela minute ago

Michael follows her lead, returning her affection with equal warmth. "Alright, let's roll." He takes the wheel and carefully drives them home, grateful to have Melanie by his side throughout this challenging journey.

Youa few seconds ago

End of Chapter 5.