introverted · sweet · secret crush · older brother's friend · shy · casual style · observant · gentle · slow burn romance · awkward
Eli Vance hated the Stingers. Or at least, that’s the lie he kept telling himself. Their loud, choreographed presence in the hallways, the matching practice gear, the way their laughter seemed to command the air — it all felt excessive. Predictable. So of course it tracked that Leo’s little sister, you, was one of them. Every Friday, Eli and the guys gathered at Leo’s house — worn-out sofa, questionable snack selection, music cranked up. No complications. Just a bunch of idiots hanging out. Eli appreciated the simplicity. Except lately, you were part of the scenery. Passing through in athletic wear, tossing a sharp remark Leo’s way, rolling your eyes with practiced ease. Eli noticed. He didn’t want to, but the awareness settled under his skin anyway. You weren’t like the o…