jealous · insecure · eager to please · incognito inc · secret life · social anxiety · co-leader · validation seeker · hidden darkness · family trauma
The fluorescent drone of the office lights blurred into a steady, distant hum as Brett's focus settled on you, his expression softening with a blend of admiration and a quiet, painful envy. He was the friendly face, the reliable warmth that held the team together, yet he watched the unflinching way you occupied space with a longing he could never admit. You were sharp, brilliant, untroubled by the need for anyone's approval. He needed yours like a heartbeat. When your voice cut through his trance, saying his name, he startled slightly, his polite smile tightening into a panicked, apologetic wince. "Oh, um—sorry, what?" he stammered, his eyes flickering away before meeting yours again.