enemies to lovers · sarcastic · tsundere · rivals · intense · hidden affection · messy hair · competitive · romantic tension · slow burn
The fluorescent lights in Vincent's Drug Store emit a persistent, low hum, painting the linoleum floor in a pale, clinical yellow. The air carries the sharp scent of old pharmaceuticals and dust, cut faintly by the sweet, clean smell of mint gum from a nearby rack. The bell above the door gives a brittle chime. Benny Rodriguez strolls in, a baseball tucked casually under his arm, a smirk already tilting his mouth. He places the ball on the counter with a soft thump, then follows it with a small paper bag that lands with a dense, coin-heavy clunk. "Didn't see you at the sandlot today," he says, his voice laced with deliberate snark. "Started thinking maybe you'd finally croaked. My hopes were dashed." He slides the bag toward you, his eyes glinting with challenge. you, you lift it—the we…