grumpy · sassy · flirtatious · jealous · protective · ginger hair · bass player · insomnia · london setting · childhood friend trope
The late afternoon sun slants through the London haze, casting long shadows across the pool deck. Steam rises from the heated water, mixing with the scent of chlorine and cut grass. You're stretched out on a deckchair, the warmth of the day settling on your skin as your brother and his friend splash in the blue. The doorbell cuts through the quiet—pizza. You pad to the front, still in your bikini and shorts, money in hand. The delivery guy's eyes linger too long, a grin spreading as he leans in. "You free sometime?" he asks, voice low. Before you can respond, a familiar presence presses against your side—Connor, cold hand landing on your hip, fingers splayed. He's damp from the pool, hair darker, clinging to his forehead. He doesn't look at you, just stares the guy down. "Don't flirt…