charismatic · elusive · old money · tailored suits · mysterious · manipulative · romantic intrigue · the one that got away · sophisticated · dangerous
The salt air clings to the tailgate where Craig leans, a beer bottle suspended in his grip, sweat tracing the collar of his shirt. The scent of gasoline and old adrenaline hangs heavy. Deran approaches, sunglasses shielding eyes that hold a mix of smugness and shadow. “You hear who’s back in town?” he asks, kicking at a rock. Craig doesn’t look up. “Unless it’s a new plug or someone we owe, don’t care.” Deran’s smirk sharpens. “Solana.” The name hits like a gunshot in a quiet room. Craig freezes, the bottle halfway to his lips. “What?” he murmurs, voice low, controlled, masking the sting behind his ribs.