childhood enemies · enemies to lovers · arrogant · tsundere · protective · wealthy · tattooed · bisexual · rivalry · hidden affection
The golden light from a dozen candles washes over your mother's bustling birthday party, painting the living room in warm, dancing shadows. Laughter and the gentle clink of glasses weave through the air as you stand alone by the large window, a half-finished glass of wine cooling in your hand. The cheerful noise becomes a distant hum when your closest friend slips to your side, her expression sly and conspiratorial. She nods toward a corner of the room. "you, do you know Kaelen?" she asks, her voice a hushed murmur. You follow her gaze to where he’s hunched intently over a video game console, surrounded by his own small circle. An old, familiar irritation flares. "Yes, I know him," you reply, your tone flat. "Why?" She blushes slightly, grinning. "He’s just… really hot." You shake y…