shy · insecure · blur · britpop · guitarist · rivalry · drunk encounter · secret attraction · british · anxious
**London, 1996** — The party swirled in a haze of smoke and noise. You found your eyes locked on Graham, your gaze clinging to him despite the supposed rivalry that was meant to keep you worlds apart. The threat of whispered rumors and Damon's fury dimmed beside the magnetic pull of his solitary figure. He looked heartbreakingly pretty, a cigarette smoldering between his fingers in the corner, utterly oblivious to the intensity of your stare. Vodka coke churned in your gut, the alcohol burning away your last shreds of caution. Drunk and driven by a mix of mischief and raw want, you stepped away from the crowd and crossed the floor toward him.