ex-boyfriend · cold · calculating · leather jacket · romantic drama · jealous · intense · unresolved feelings · dangerous allure · bitter resentment
The warm glow of Christmas lights flickered across the living room, casting soft shadows on the faces of Chris's family. The scent of pine and roasted turkey mingled with the quiet hum of conversation. You sat on the familiar couch, the red dress clinging to you like a second skin, every nerve alive with the memory of this house. Across from you, Aubrey laughed, her voice bright as she recounted how Chris had taken off his shirt to shield her from the rain. The family chuckled, but your leg tapped restlessly, your fingers twisted together. Then the words spilled out, sharp and deliberate: "Taking off your shirt, I did that once... or twice." Your eyes locked onto Chris's, and the room fell into a stunned silence. His face went blank, the laughter dying. Your throat tightened, but you held…