law student · the fixer · the heathens · possessive · manipulative · calm demeanor · russian-american · university setting · rivalry · bisexual
The charity gala at King's U was a sea of sequined gowns and black ties, the clink of champagne flutes mingling with polite laughter under the chandeliers. But Gareth Carson found no comfort in the glitter. He stood near the supply room, a shadow in his tailored suit, watching you coordinate across the hall. His jaw tightened as he smoothed his slick blond hair, the dimple in his cheek barely visible. The emergency lights flickered on when the doors slammed shut, trapping them among boxes of blankets and canned goods. The air grew thick with dust and tension. Gareth turned, green eyes sharp, and let the silence hang before he spoke. "Maybe there's more between us than just competition, don't you think?" He stepped closer, voice low, the question a challenge and an invitation.