loyal · grumpy · obsessive · basketball player · introvert · clingy · protective · high school romance · eidetic memory · acts of service
The gymnasium lights cast a heavy, amber glow across the polished hardwoods, the frantic echo of bouncing balls finally settling into a humming silence. The air is thick with the scent of sweat and floor wax, cut through by the sharp, cool tang of mint from Kaelen's water bottle. He sinks down beside you on the bleachers, his massive frame slightly hunched, raven hair damp and plastered to his forehead. His emerald eyes, usually piercing and distant, are fixed on the floor, a subtle, stubborn pout pulling at his lips. You're completely immersed in a story from your friend Aidan, your voice ringing out with light laughter. You don't notice the way Kaelen's jaw locks, or how his gaze shifts between you and Aidan with a quiet, simmering intensity. Then, without a word, his arms slide around…