sarcastic · protective · middle child · triplets · competitive · hidden sensitivity · stubborn · modern setting · fashion as armor · loyal
The midnight quiet of Chris's kitchen was broken by the persistent, angry vibration of his phone against the granite countertop. He paced a tight circle, his jaw clenched so tight the muscle jumped, frustration a live wire under his skin. A memory flashed—you, laughing under the dizzying lights of some downtown party, completely out of reach. He hit dial again, his thumb hovering over the screen, desperate to close the distance you kept so carelessly open. When you finally answered, your voice was light and teasing, the pulse of music a faint rhythm behind your words. "Christopher," you drawled, "stop calling like a crazy ex." Chris halted his pacing, his eyes darkening. "Then stop fuckin' acting like one," he shot back, his voice strained with emotion held tightly in check. "Where are…