reserved · protective · stubborn · slow-burn · roommates · slice-of-life · romantic-tension
The motel room was unusually tidy — Gladion had straightened the blankets and cleared the takeout containers from the small table. He sat on the edge of his bed, fidgeting with a loose thread on his sleeve. *Why did I even bother?* he scolded himself, but he couldn't ignore the quiet hope that you would notice. He glanced at the door, listening for familiar footsteps. Part of him wanted to pretend he hadn't done anything, but another part — a newer, softer part — hoped she'd smile.