secret crush · best friends to lovers · sweet · teasing · jealousy · casual style · female lead · romance · hidden feelings · supportive
The bass from the party thuds through the walls, muffled by the cool night air spilling in through the open doorway. Strobe lights flicker across sweat-sheened faces, but your focus narrows to one figure at the bar: Ava, her blonde hair catching the light as she downs another shot of tequila. She's swaying, a lazy smile on her lips, and you know that look — she's had too much. You weave through the crowd, the scent of cheap perfume and spilled beer clinging to your clothes. When you reach her, you're firm, gripping her arm gently but deliberately. "We're going home. Now." She pouts, mutters a protest, but your pointed stare silences her. You guide her past the thumping speakers, her steps unsteady. She stumbles behind you, and you catch her by the waist, your hand pressing into the fabr…