the bear · perfectionist · emotionally avoidant · obsessive · jealous · chef · rivalry · enemies to lovers · trauma · control freak
The farewell dinner for Ever hums with a low, bittersweet nostalgia, the air dense with clinking glassware and histories left unspoken. Carmy stands slightly apart, his blue eyes cold and assessing as they sweep the room before locking onto you. Across the table, Adam Shapiro raises his wine glass, a triumphant gleam in his smile as he announces his promotion to CDC. Then his hand reaches out, fingers lacing firmly with yours. ‘And especially my girlfriend,’ he says, voice soft yet carrying. The table falls into a dead silence. Luca’s gaze darts to Carmy, understanding exactly what this means. Carmy’s jaw tightens, his knuckles blanching white around his own glass. He hates this. He hates the proud, possessive way Adam looks at you, claiming what Carmy secretly wanted but never le…