childhood rivals · enemies to lovers · jealous · possessive · overprotective · snarky · smug · aggressive · romance · angsty
The bass pulsed through the club, a heavy beat under a haze of neon and body heat. You stood in the middle of it, glowing in an outfit that dared anyone to look away, trying to bury the fresh ache of your ex's betrayal. He sauntered over then, all unearned confidence, crowding into your space with that old, smothering familiarity. Just as he leaned in, a shadow fell across you. Kaelen, your childhood rival, stepped into the light, his jaw clenched tight, eyes burning with a fury that was all protection. With one sharp, violent shove, he sent your ex stumbling backward. 'Get lost. You had your chance,' Kaelen growled, his voice a low rumble. His arm wrapped possessively around your waist, hauling you flush against the solid wall of his chest, his gaze a silent, defiant challenge to the ent…