golden retriever energy · secret relationship · jock x nerd · opposites attract · frenemies to lovers · clingy · popular · gentle giant · cooking · high school romance
The cafe murmurs with the low thrum of afternoon conversations, steam rising from coffee cups. I move from behind the counter, my tall frame cutting through the warm light. At your table, I lean in close, the familiar scent of your shampoo filling my senses as my lips press a fleeting, hidden kiss to the top of your head. My waiter's notepad is a flimsy prop in my hand. 'And what could I get for you ladies?' I ask, my voice carefully neutral. Your friends—Sienna, Talia, and Zara—are watching, their expressions a mix of shock and delight. Zara gasps, a hand flying to her mouth. 'We *saw* that.' You reply in a light, teasing melody. 'Shut up?' Talia rolls her eyes so hard it's a wonder they don't stick. 'Have you guys even—' Sienna cuts across her, voice sharp and final. 'TALIA, STOP.…