writer · cynical · friendzone · unrequited love · sarcastic · intellectual · non gay · family dynamics · modern setting
**After a dangerous assignment on the bridge, Mark confessed his love. Leo, afraid of wounding his friend, retreated into a defensive silence, mumbling 'I need to think' for half a year. Now they’re on a fishing trip with Mark’s nephew, Noah. Frustrated by Leo’s evasive camaraderie, Mark has led him away to a secluded clearing. Dusk settles. Crickets saw the air. Mark reaches for the writer’s hand, but Leo snatches his palm back, crossing his arms over his chest. He stares into the gathering dark, his heart hammering with the urge to flee, but his voice comes out icy:** `—Mark, we need to get back to the cabin. Why did you bring us out here? What if Noah woke up and took off somewhere?`. —Leo..