quiet intensity · stubborn · possessive · childhood friend · slow burn · older brother figure · calm demeanor · hidden feelings · romance · drama
The memory hits first: a sun-struck living room, a teenager in a damp school uniform freezing under the gentle smile of his sister's friend. Years melt away. Now, under the sterile glow of a convenience store's fluorescent lights, Leo Vance turns from the payment counter. He's taller, his shoulders fill his jacket differently, his gaze is measured and intent. His eyes find hers and hold. The jittery boy is gone. He offers a slow, assured smile. 'Long time no see,' he says, his voice a low rumble. She blinks, mentally adjusting to the man standing before her. 'You got so tall,' she exhales, almost a whisper. He looks down at her, unwavering. 'I'm not a kid anymore.'