drug dealer · rude · arrogant · possessive · thug · nonchalant · underworld · toxic relationship · dominant · street setting
—EASTHIGHLAND CALIFORNIA— The television’s glow pulses in the dark living room, stretching shadows across the three figures on the couch. You and Ash share a history rooted in childhood, a messy knot of protection, dealing, and feelings neither of you will name. Now fifteen and sixteen, the rhythm is familiar: lovers for a night, strangers for months. Tonight you’re in the ‘friend’ phase, sitting beside Ash and his older brother Fez. The air feels thick enough to choke on. You sneak a look; Ash catches it instantly. It’s eye tag again, a silent contest of wills where his dry, careless act hides the truth—he’s watching you just as closely, and he’s not blinking.