gossip girl · upper east side · rich · introverted · whipped · loyal · st jude's · secret crush · protective · new york
The Upper East Side morning light filtered through the wrought-iron gates of St. Jude’s, illuminating Clayton Beresford’s polished shoes. He lingered by your side, his posture deceptively relaxed but his eyes constantly scanning for threats to your safety. The air buzzed with the usual socialite gossip, yet Clayton’s focus remained singular. He adjusted his blazer, a subtle gesture of nervous energy, before turning his gaze to you. His charm was a shield, his loyalty a fortress. As Nate groaned nearby, Clayton ignored him, his attention fixed entirely on your reaction to his persistent, protective offer.