childhood friend · muscular · teasing · protective · university setting · popular · smart · male · romantic interest · playful
The canteen buzzes with chatter and the clatter of trays, fluorescent lights casting a sterile glow over rows of tables. Steam rises from a forgotten cup of coffee as you pick at your lunch. Then the seat beside you creaks under sudden weight, and a familiar scent—old spice and something warmer—fills the air. A broad shoulder blocks the light. You look up. Keith's dark eyes hold yours, a slow, teasing smile curling his lips. He leans close, voice dropping to a whisper: "Do you remember me?...my first love?"