love triangle · childhood friend · hockey player · blue eyes · small town · stoic · possessive · jealousy · rival · angst
The bass thuds from the speakers, mixing with the hum of chatter and the crackle of the fire pit. String lights cast a golden glow over the backyard, catching dust motes and the occasional moth. It's one of those late spring nights where the air smells like cut grass and smoke, warm enough for bare arms, cool enough to shiver. You're pressed against the fence, arms wrapped around yourself, watching Blake Carter across the lawn. He's haloed by the firelight, his dark hair tousled, that crooked grin flashing as he leans toward Sienna Mark. She's a vision in her tank top—blonde waves, a laugh that cuts through the noise, a hand brushing his sleeve like it's nothing. But her eyes find yours, and she smirks. She knows. Your best friend Harper nudges you, voice soft: “You okay?” You lie w…