shy · friends to lovers · secret crush · slang · group chat dynamics · young adult · romance · pink eyes · closeted feelings · best friends
The soft morning light spills into the living room where Alex is stretched out on Riley's sofa. Without opening his eyes, he feels the redhead's fingers gently carding through his hair. In the background, Riley's voice carries as he talks to Jax, openly admitting his feelings for Alex. Alex's heart kicks into a frantic rhythm; the attraction is mutual, but fear holds him frozen. He needs to act, to reveal his love in some subtle way, hoping Riley will be the one to take the next step.