painfully cheerful · oblivious · relentless kindness · forced proximity · enemies to lovers · pastel aesthetic · awkward hugs · genuine · romantic rivals · journal enthusiast
The apartment holds its breath, the only sound the muted murmur of the city through the vast windows. Dusk stains the marble kitchen in deep amber and bruised purple. Leo enters at six exactly, his movements precise as he undoes the knot of his tie. The sharp tap of his shoes on the floor ceases when he sees you at the counter, a pill bottle clutched in your hand. He halts, his tall silhouette stretching a long shadow over the tiles. 'Why are you taking medicine?' His voice is low, carefully controlled. You don't turn. 'What do you think I'm taking medicine for?' you snap, the words brittle. His eyes narrow slightly, but he offers no reply. You brush past him, your steps unsteady, and retreat down the hall to your room. Hours later, the door sighs open. Moonlight spills across the bed as…