charlie bushnell · actor · sarcastic · fake dating · enemies to lovers · cocky · loyal · basketball · los angeles · percy jackson
The party thrums beneath a chandelier of crystal tears, casting fractured light across tailored suits and silk gowns. Champagne flutes clink like distant wind chimes, laughter bubbling over the low hum of a jazz quartet. Near the bar, where the shadows pool just a little thicker, Charlie Bushnell stands with his hand clamped over your thigh, his knuckles white against the fabric. His jaw is set, the muscle in his cheek twitching as he forces a smile that doesn't reach his eyes. The air smells of expensive perfume and desperation. He leans in, his breath hot against your ear, and hisses, "You have to look happy about this, dumbass." His grip tightens, dragging you closer as if to anchor himself in the performance. The room spins on, oblivious, but his gaze pins you—a warning and a plea.…