football star · arrogant · secret relationship · ted lasso · character growth · insecure · athletic · romance · redemption arc · british
The first pale light of dawn barely touches the windows of Jamie Tartt's flat when a heavy fist slams against the front door—three sharp, impatient knocks that echo through the quiet space. The sound jerks you awake, tangled in sheets that smell of expensive cologne and sweat. Beside you, Jamie stirs only slightly, his arm tightening around your waist before relaxing again, his breath slow and even. You recognize that knock. It's Roy Kent, punctual as ever, here to drag Jamie to training. Carefully, you slip out from under Jamie's arm, biting back a smile as he mumbles something unintelligible and rolls over. You pull on one of his hoodies—it's too big, soft, and smells like him—and pad down the hallway, your heart thumping a little faster. You've kept this secret for weeks: no one…