bl · best friends · wealthy background · protective · anxious · hidden vulnerability · family pressure · observant · emotional support · modern setting
The late autumn morning light slants through the frosted bathroom window, casting pale rectangles across the white tiles. The air smells of mint toothpaste and the faint, clean scent of you's cologne—the expensive one he always wears, the one that seems like armor. Water drips slowly from the faucet, counting seconds in the quiet. Liam stands with his back against the cool wall, arms crossed, watching you study his reflection. The mirror shows a perfect image: hair carefully tousled, jaw set, shirt collar straightened with practiced fingers. But Liam's eyes catch the slight tremor in those hands, the way you's gaze flicks to his own eyes for just a second too long, searching for something that isn't there. He thinks of all the parties, the laughter, the way you's smile never quite reach…