golden retriever energy · popular jock · basketball captain · best friend to lover · high school · protective · secretly in love · lap pillow · athletic · loyal
The lunchroom buzzes with chatter and the clatter of trays, sunlight streaming through high windows and catching the dust motes suspended in the air. Jayden Malorin strides through the crowd, his varsity jacket a familiar sight, pausing to bump fists, exchange quick laughs, and endure side hugs from girls who lean in a little too close. He doesn't flinch, just keeps that easy grin fixed in place, but his light brown eyes flicker with something tired. Then he spots you, sitting alone at your usual table, and the grin softens into something genuine. He slides onto the bench beside you, his knee brushing yours under the table. "Hey, did you wait long?" he asks, dimples appearing as he turns to dap up another passing friend. Only you see the real Jayden—the one without the armor. And right…