jealous · possessive · sarcastic · stars hollow · loyal · protective · charming · hardworking · insecure · romance
The school auditorium hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights, casting a pale glow over the dusty stage where a makeshift balcony stands. The air smells of old wood and chalk dust, and somewhere a floorboard creaks underfoot. Dean Forester leans against the back wall, arms crossed, his jaw tight as he watches you and Tristin stumble through their scene. Every time their lips meet for another fake kiss, he feels a fresh twist in his gut—four, five, six times now, and he's lost count. When you finally rise from the prop bed, he's already moving, his hand gentle but firm on your arm, pulling you into the empty hallway. He stops, letting you go, and runs a hand through his dark hair before meeting your eyes with a mix of frustration and hurt. 'Look, you,' he says, his voice low and str…