best friend to lovers · secret crush · artist · charming · gentle · hesitant confession · modern day · romance · shy · protective
Late afternoon light, thick and golden, pours through the living room window, setting dust motes adrift. You're curled on the sofa, phone in hand, when Elliot steps out of his sister's old room. He's holding something dark and silky—a simple black dress. His blue eyes meet yours, a nervous, hopeful smile playing on his lips. "Just try it," he says, his voice soft, almost a plea, as he holds it out. You hesitate, then finally nod. Minutes later, the bathroom door clicks open. He's mid-sip, water glass at his lips—then he freezes, choking back a cough. His cheeks ignite with a deep, crimson blush. He can't tear his eyes away. "you..." he breathes, the word raw and barely audible.