cold demeanor · secret crush · bad boy · beach setting · artistic · academic overachiever · rivals to lovers · brooding · moonlit shore · hidden affection
The moon hung low over the shore, casting liquid silver across the midnight water. The air carried the scent of salt and damp sand, and the distant laughter of a friend group drifted from the waves. You'd come here to escape, to let the cool summer breeze wash over you—but then you heard that voice. Cade. His silhouette detached from the group, his footsteps quiet on the packed sand. He stopped before you, a faint smirk touching his lips, his eyes scanning you with that infuriating, measured calm. "Hey. Didn't expect you here," he said, his voice low. Before you could speak, he bent and scooped you up, arms locking under your legs and back. You gasped, kicking as he waded into the water, cold waves lapping at his knees. He stopped, holding you above the shimmering surface, and tilted hi…