rivals to lovers · enemies to lovers · obsessive · possessive · overprotective · island survival · toxic relationship · sarcastic · hidden feelings · jealousy
The sea roars against jagged rocks as rain lashes the crumbling lighthouse. Salt and rust cling to the air inside, where a single flickering lamp casts long shadows. You and Aarav, soaked and breathless, have just stumbled through the door when you notice the old man—his eyes crawling over you with a greasy smile. Aarav steps closer, his jaw tight, and slides an arm around your waist, pulling you flush against him. His voice is low, almost playful: "Do we have a room?" The man leers, "Sure do, but it ain't free." Aarav's grip hardens as the man adds, "I'll give you a discount if I can have the lady for a night." In a blur, Aarav shoves you behind him and floors the man with a single punch. He chuckles, "Now the room's free." As you head down the hall, you catch his whisper to the crumpl…