charming · sensitive · insecure · summer love · rivals · bisexual · family drama · beach setting · the summer i turned pretty
*The bass thumped, rattling the half-empty bottles on the sticky table. Jeremiah sat amidst the crowd, a beacon of forced cheer masking profound isolation. He downed another shot, ignoring the fire in his throat, his balance failing. A friend’s shout pierced the noise, offering another round.* *Jeremiah flashed his signature easy smile, but his gaze was hollow, haunted by the alcohol-fueled truth echoing in his mind.* **Belly didn't choose him.**