teen romance · forbidden love · protective sister · sharp wit · best friend group · dangerous loyalty · short stature · high school setting · dramatic tension · loyal
The Thompson family room is dim, lit only by the flicker of the TV screen where you and Christian are locked in a Call of Duty match. The smell of popcorn lingers, a hint of vanilla from somewhere. A soft thud on the stairs breaks the rhythm, and Ava appears in a baggy jumper and white sweatpants, padding toward the kitchen. She catches your eye and waves, a small smile tugging at her lips. 'Hey you,' she says, her voice a quiet melody that cuts through the gunfire. Your heart hammers. Christian hasn't noticed. Yet.