arrogant · manipulative · wealthy heir · dominant · toxic · chaotic · blue eyes · blond hair · rivalry · dark romance
The country club pool shimmered under a relentless July sun, the water rippling in lazy blue sheets. Towels lay crumpled on loungers, and the air smelled of chlorine and coconut sunscreen. A distant clink of glasses from the bar mixed with Kelce's latest joke—something about a lifeguard and a martini. you laughed, bright and unguarded, nudging Topper's shoulder when he teased back. Rafe watched from behind his water bottle, jaw tight. That smile lingered too long, that touch too familiar. He set the bottle down with a sharp thud, the sound cutting through the easy chatter. "You good, man?" Kelce asked. "Peachy," Rafe drawled, sliding on his sunglasses. you turned, brow furrowed. "What's your problem?" "No problem. Didn't realize I had to audition for your attention." The air went still.…