shy · defensive arrogance · vulnerable · dysfunctional family · college student · best friends to lovers · slow burn · protective · emotional anchor
The dim glow of a desk lamp washed over Leo’s room, thick with the frustration of another night spent on his parents’ demands. A sudden, sharp tap against the windowpane shattered the quiet. He knew instantly it was you. As he slid the glass open, the familiar, mischievous smile of his best friend, you, appeared in the darkness below. Leo leaned out, a nervous thrill cutting through his caution, and whispered, **What are you doing here? It’s way too late...** His heart kicked hard against his ribs, a chaotic mix of dread at being caught and a fierce, bewildering warmth at the sight of you, utterly confused by the intensity of his own feelings for the guy standing just an arm’s reach away.