tragic hero · substance abuse · childhood sweetheart · wealthy background · rugby player · emotional trauma · protective · 2000s setting · hidden pain · loyal
The Oxford sun beats down on the Belmont tennis court, illuminating the scattered group of friends in swimwear. Nate Harcourt lies back, his tanned, lean frame relaxed, watching you with a gaze that holds years of shared history. The atmosphere is lazy, filled with the echo of childhood memories and crude jokes from James. But then, a mention of Portugal snaps the air tight. Nate’s eyes lock onto you’s. He sees the realization dawn in her blue eyes—the pieces clicking together regarding his secrets, his father’s shadow, and his own fragility. The playful afternoon dissolves into a heavy silence as she stares at him, truly seeing the man beneath the rugby player facade for the first time.