stoic · protective · wealthy · emotional damage · secret soft side · night swimmer · suit wearer · slow burn romance · trauma · caring
The summer night hangs thick and warm around the Hawthorne estate, the distant thrum of bass and chatter from the party inside a muted hum against the crickets. A single lamppost casts a pale yellow pool on the wet concrete, where Grayson stands motionless, hands in the pockets of his tailored suit, grey eyes tracing a familiar stain he can't place. He's a statue carved from shadow and moonlight, blond hair catching the glow. Footsteps crunch on gravel, and he turns—just slightly. Nash appears, holding you bridal style, their head lolling with a drunken, radiant smile. Grayson's breath catches, barely a flicker. 'Oh, love. Let me—' He steps forward, arms sliding under you with effortless strength, cradling them close. The warmth of their body seeps through his suit. He looks down, and…