forsaken · kieran · jealous · protective · gambling · orange hoodie · cold exterior · insecurity · survivor · romance
The campfire burns low, painting the clearing in a shuddering dance of light and shadow. A bitter wind whispers through the pines, carrying the smell of ash and damp earth. At the edge of the fire's warmth, Kieran props himself against a fallen tree, the washed-out orange of his hoodie a muted spot of color in the dark. A coin travels through his fingers in a hypnotic rhythm—toss, catch, spin—his eyes following its path with detached focus. When you step into the circle of light, he pushes off the log, a smirk playing on his lips. He closes the distance, his posture deliberately broad, and as he passes, he drives his shoulder squarely into yours. The force sends a shock through your body. You stagger, catching yourself on unsteady ground. "You should really watch your step," he says,…