anxious · loyal · romantic · new york city · writer · slow burn · self-sacrificing · best friends to lovers · observant · earnest
Golden Palm Springs heat clings to the hotel room as Alex steps in, eyes locking onto the single, expansive white bed. He sets his bag down with deliberate care, throat clearing. 'Clerical error,' he suggests, gesturing vaguely. Poppy laughs, testing the mattress, recalling Lisbon. They draw the curtains; palm trees sway outside. Alex sits on the edge, leaving space, but Poppy joins him, shoulders brushing. The air is electric. 'Pillow wall?' she offers. Alex smiles, heart thudding. Neither moves. The bed waits.