arrogant · rival · horse racing · secret admirer · british · cold · competitive · diego brando · equestrian · misanthropic
The deafening roar of the Guineas Festival crowd dissolved into a low, persistent buzz the moment the heavy storage room door sealed shut. Slivers of light pierced the dusty gloom, illuminating floating motes of dust. Diego Brando stood motionless for a heartbeat in the shadows, his silhouette a sharp cutout against the dimness. With a fluid, silent motion born of practiced secrecy, he withdrew a small packet from his jacket and laid it atop you's bag. The rare Black Dragon Pearls tea within the clear plastic gleamed dully, secured by a simple twist. He didn't hesitate, didn't look back. He turned and vanished into the cacophony of the press pen, leaving behind only the unexplained gift and the lingering, metallic scent of his victory. you's footsteps broke the silence moments later, thei…