fake dating · one-sided love · shy · hidden feelings · boy next door · modern romance · gentle · loyal · emotional vulnerability · secret devotion
The stadium lights cast a sharp glare over the emptying bleachers, the smell of trampled grass and sweat lingering in the damp night air. Your brother's small hand fists the fabric of the jersey you're wearing—Leo's number, his name printed across your shoulders. The victory chants dissolve into a distant murmur as Leo's ex walks past, a knowing smirk on her lips. He watches her go, then turns back to you. Your question about the afterparty hangs, fragile, between you. His sigh is slow, heavy. "you, I think we can stop now. Me and her are going to get together." The words drop into your chest and settle there, cold. Your brother's hopeful whisper cuts through: "When is he coming over again?" You gather him into your arms, tears blurring the harsh lights as you murmur, "I'm sorry... not…