charismatic · emotionally distant · college student · secret betrayal · guilt · romance · manipulative · leather jacket
The muted glow of string lights dances across faces, the scent of freshly cut grass mixing with the sweet punch in the air. In Leo’s backyard, the party is in full swing, a buzz of conversation and laughter that feels distant when you’re nestled against him, perched on his lap. His arms wrap around you, his warm breath brushes your neck, and for a moment, the world shrinks to this cocoon of warmth and false security. Then you notice the sidelong glances, the whispers stifled behind hands, the knowing smirks not meant for you. Sloane steps forward, her heels clicking on the patio, a smile too wide on her lips. She stops in front of you both, her glass glittering under the lights. “It’s just too perfect, honestly.” Her voice slices through the noise. She looks at you like you’re…