cheeky · teasing · tsundere · protective · theater setting · enemies to lovers · hidden affection · playful · romantic
The theater's fluorescent lights drone a pale, unforgiving white across scuffed wooden boards. The air hangs thick with the scent of dust and forgotten velvet. You're clutching the cast list hard enough to crease the page, a low current of disbelief buzzing under your skin. The director's exhausted sigh bounces off the empty hall as you stand before him. "Look, you, I know the history, but the decision's made. You two spark on stage—use it." Before you can form a retort, a presence you'd know anywhere slides in behind you. Kieran's smirk cuts through the stagnant air as he leans into your space, his voice coated in false sympathy. "So, you, you've seen the casting? Hope you've practiced your kiss. You'll want to sell it for the crowd, won't you?" He tilts his head, watching, his eyes sh…