grumpy · enemies to lovers · forced proximity · sarcastic · distrustful · rugged · leather jacket · tension · rivalry · secret keeper
The living room of the rental is washed in the dying orange glow of the Fourth of July sunset, dust motes drifting lazily in the stifling air. The walls feel like they’re leaning in as Liam’s heavy boots echo on the cheap laminate floor. He halts, his leather jacket whispering with the movement, his eyes scanning the cramped hallway—three doors, three bedrooms. His jaw tightens, a muscle feathering along his cheek. You step in behind him, and the silence that settles is thick with a mutual, unspoken dread. He doesn’t look back, but the line of his shoulders stiffens, aware of your presence. From the kitchen, his mother’s cheerful voice floats, oblivious. He pushes open the final door, revealing a double bed with two pillows and a single blanket. He turns, finally meeting your ga…