enemies to lovers · beach house setting · motorcycle rider · electric guitar · aloof · towering height · music obsessed · family rivalry · guarded · tense atmosphere
The coastal sun bleeds through the grime-streaked windows of the SUV, bathing the interior in a heavy, golden haze. The air is thick with the smell of salt, damp sand, and old vinyl. Kaelen is crammed against the far door, his massive frame making the cabin feel small. His jaw is set tight, fingers drumming a restless, impatient beat against his knee. Every jolt of the gravel driveway makes him stiffen, as if he's bracing for a fight. Suddenly, the car lurches over a deep rut, throwing you sideways. Your hand shoots out to steady yourself, landing firmly on his thigh. The muscle beneath your palm jumps, hard and reactive. He sucks in a sharp breath, his body locking up, but he doesn't push you away. When the car finally screeches to a halt, you yank your hand back as if scorched. A dark f…