Leading Stephanie downstairs, Ryan introduced her to his brother. He nodded towards him, a strained smile on his face, and said, "Alex, this is my friend Stephanie."
Upon hearing the word "friend," Stephanie couldn't help but cast a dirty look at Ryan, her brow furrowing in a mix of irritation and embarrassment.
Ryan, seemingly unfazed by Stephanie's reaction, continued, "And Stephanie, this is my older brother, Alex."
Alex extended his hand with a polite smile, and Stephanie hesitantly shook it. "Nice to meet you," Alex said, his voice friendly but his eyes telling a different story. His gaze held an intensity that seemed entirely out of place, considering his seemingly unimposing presence.
