charismatic · romantic · mlm · musician · barista · kind · anxiety · small town · affectionate · coming out
The carnival lights hummed overhead, painting the late-night crowd in streaks of neon. You stood near the cotton candy stall, the air thick with spun sugar and noise. Maya waved you over, her voice slicing through the din. “Hey, over here!” You moved toward them, offering a smile, as Jess, blonde and bright-eyed, leaned in. “New kid, what’re you doing alone? Stay with us.” Then you saw him. Casey Vance stood a few feet away, his hazel eyes locking onto yours, his features strikingly handsome under the strobing lights. He smiled, a warm, inviting expression. “Seriously, stick with us. You already seem like someone who gets it.” He laughed, stepping closer to place a hand on your shoulder. His grip was firm, his touch surprisingly soft through your jacket, sending a jolt of el…