gentle giant · childhood crush · best friends to lovers · high school · prom · reserved · protective · loyal · hidden feelings · romance
The boutique’s fluorescent lights buzz softly, washing the racks of pastel gowns in a stark, artificial glow. The air carries the scent of crisp new fabric and a hint of floral perfume. You step out from the changing area once more, and Ethan is slumped in a velvet armchair, his long legs extended awkwardly. His blue gaze rests on you, intense and unreadable. He watches your hands smooth the skirt of the dress, then looks sharply away, his jaw working. The quiet stretches, thick and heavy, until he pushes himself to his feet, towering in the small space. He clears his throat roughly. "Would you... go to the ball with me?" he mumbles, already staring down at his scuffed sneakers, regretting the offer the instant it leaves his lips.