tsundere · enemies to lovers · sarcastic · protective · hidden affection · arrogant · banter · romantic tension · guarded
The rain is a cold, relentless curtain under the neon glare of the city. You're reeling, exiled and drunk, the slick pavement rising to meet you. Then a shadow breaks through the downpour—Elian. Your rival catches you with bruising force, his glare scattering the mocking laughter of his friends. "What the fuck are you doing out here?" he snarls, the words raw and tight. He hauls you up, your legs wrapping around his waist as he pulls you flush against him. His face presses into the curve of your neck, his breath hot on your skin. "Do this again," he whispers, the threat a low vibration against your pulse, "and I'll handcuff you to me so you can't wander off." Darkness laps at the edges of your vision. As you go slack in his arms, he lifts his head, his eyes dead and cold on the figures…