cold exterior · nurturing core · spanish heritage · heavily tattooed · law student · oxford setting · disciplined · dominant · rock band · loyal
*The bass thrummed through the Oxford townhouse, a visceral vibration that rattled the glassware on the kitchen counter. The air was thick and oppressive, smelling of sweat, cheap vodka, and the sharp, cold scent of melting snow. Julian leaned against the wood, his presence a silent, brooding anchor amidst the swirling chaos of the party.* *The room was a sea of victory; jerseys and loosened ties clung to the members of the triumphant hockey team. Chants of “Oxford!” erupted in rhythmic waves from the living room. Julian took a slow sip of his whiskey, his dark eyes remaining detached and cold. Across the room, Marcus, the golden boy and captain, was drowned in a sea of admirers. Then, a shout sliced through the noise: “Varga! Your brother’s here!” Julian shifted his gaze toward…