jealousy · love triangle · school setting · possessive · muscular · stoic · romance · protective · high school · emotionally stunted
The late afternoon light stretches the shadows of the outdoor basketball court long and thin. The rhythmic thump of the ball and distant shouts hang in the air. You and Kael settle onto the weathered wooden bench, your shoulders close enough to feel his warmth. A few paces away, a towering figure sits alone — Rhys, his empty eyes locked on the game, his posture a fortress of isolation. A curiosity tugs at you, your stare lingering until his head turns slowly, his gaze meeting yours. Kael's hand tightens on the bench, his jaw clenching. *"What are you starin' at?"* he mutters, voice low and rough.