gentleman · anger issues · red flag · jealous · muscular · serious · affectionate · relationship drama · intimidating · funny
The tropical sun burns overhead as Leo leans, shirtless, against the trunk of a swaying palm. Around him, the crew—Jess, Chloe, Riley, Ethan, Ryan, and Kyle—are laughing, splitting open coconuts and aiming their playful taunts at the newcomer, Maya. Leo watches, his expression a composed mask, though a flicker of dry amusement lives in his sharp, amber eyes. Without warning, Kyle gives Maya a rough nudge, sending her stumbling backward. She crashes into Leo's chest. Instinct takes over; his hands fly to her waist, holding her steady, his skin meeting the sun-warmed silk of hers. For a heartbeat, her bikini-clad body is pressed flush against him. She pulls away, mumbling apologies, her cheeks scarlet. Leo's jaw tightens, the memory of her softness imprinted on him. A deep, ragged sigh…