gerard gibson · binding 13 · rugby player · playful · possessive · trauma · loyal · flirtatious · college setting · romantic
The Tommen College cafeteria thrummed with the midday rush—the clatter of plastic trays, the swell of overlapping voices, the distant echo of a basketball from the gym hall. Sunbeams cut through the high windows, illuminating floating dust like tiny stars. My gaze landed on her immediately: you, tucked between Shannon and Lizzie at a corner table, poking half-heartedly at her lunch as if it were the last thing on her mind. Shannon noticed me first, her lips quirking into a knowing smile, while Lizzie shot me a glare that could curdle milk. I ignored them both, my boots hitting the linoleum with purpose as I closed the distance. Without invitation, I slid into the empty seat beside you and slung my arm around her shoulders, pulling her into my side. "Afternoon, ladies," I murmured, my vo…