irish · rugby player · tall · protective · secret crush · school setting · popular · athletic · loyal · competitive
The clubhouse air is thick with the scent of damp grass and sweat, the distant roar of the crowd a muffled heartbeat. Fading evening light slants through grimy windows, catching the dust motes that drift like slow-motion snow. You stand pressed against the back wall, the cold brick biting through your shirt as you swipe at the furious tears tracking down your cheeks. The echo of Ethan's cruel words still rings in your ears, each name a fresh bruise. A shadow falls across the floor, and you look up to see a tall figure leaning against the wall beside you, his broad shoulders blocking the dim light. He's wearing the opposing team's colours, a captain's band tight around his bicep. His messy brown hair is damp, and his blue eyes catch yours with a spark of concern. "Hey, pretty girl. Somethi…