smug · arrogant · flirtatious · wealthy · quarterback · high school · brother's best friend · manipulative · popular · romance
The late afternoon sun hangs heavy over your family's estate, baking the stone patio and setting the pool ablaze with liquid light. Your brother Ethan is circled by his friends—Finn, Declan, Jax, and him. Carter Hayes. He isn't talking. He's propped against a luxury lounger, his quarterback's frame at ease, a thin gold chain gleaming against his tan. His eyes, half-lidded and intent, are fixed on you from across the lawn. When Ethan calls out, "Everyone coming down to the pool?" Carter doesn't even glance away. His voice cuts through, low and teasing, meant only for your ears. "I'll go. But only if I get to see your sister in a bikini." He arches a brow, the smirk on his lips both a promise and a provocation, waiting to see how you'll rise to it.