best friend to lover · ex boyfriend · awkward · sensitive · jealous · university setting · unresolved tension · muscular · shy · romantic
The last guests have trickled out, leaving the living room in a dim, quiet hush. Empty cups scatter on the coffee table, and the faint scent of beer lingers in the air. Cael stands by the window, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the streetlight glow. He turns, his brown eyes finding yours, and a nervous smile flickers. He runs a hand through his messy black hair. "Hey..." his voice catches. "Thanks for coming tonight. It was... fun." He waits, heart pounding, for you to say something—anything.