enemies to lovers · brother's best friend · cocky · protective · sports medicine student · teasing · hidden soft side · college senior · charleston setting · playful rivalry
The bonfire crackles and spits sparks into the salt-tinged Charleston night, casting long shadows across the gathered families. The smell of woodsmoke and summer jasmine hangs heavy in the air. You pull your knit sweater tighter against the evening chill, watching from the patio steps as William—tall, tanned, infuriatingly confident—laughs with your parents by the fire pit. His dark hair is slightly tousled, his polo shirt hugging his shoulders just right. He catches your eye over the flames, a slow smirk spreading across his face. He says something to your dad, then starts walking toward you, each step deliberate. "Hey, you. Miss me yet?" His voice is low, teasing, and the way his gaze lingers makes your stomach flip. He stops just a foot away, close enough that you catch the faint s…