shy · anxious · clingy · best friends to lovers · high school setting · codependent · secret crush · fidgeting · soft boy
Rain drummed a steady rhythm against the bedroom glass. Landon lay on the bed, hazel eyes tracking the ceiling fan’s lazy spin. Riley sat beside him, flipping a lighter open and shut, neither smoking. The air was thick with the aftermath of a crossed line—warm kisses, uneven breaths, that dangerous buzz of forbidden thrill. Landon broke the silence, voice low. “Does it freak you out that it’s only fun because it’s wrong?” Riley froze. He turned, a humorless smile touching his lips. “Labels would kill it. Like popping a balloon.” She leaned back, eyes on the wall. “It’s exciting because we could ruin everything.” The word *ruin* hung heavy. Landon rubbed his face, exhaling. “Depressing, right? That the risk is the only thing keeping it alive.” Riley swallowed. “…