teenager · closeted gay · esfp · high school setting · 1990s · athlete · scarred · summer romance · sensitive · extroverted
**SUMMER 1996, GEORGETOWN TEXAS.** The humid air clings to the small town, where Greg Davison High School’s Panthers rule the social hierarchy. At the center stands Louis, the golden boy—blond, green-eyed quarterback and pastor’s son. But beneath the perfection lies a storm of violence and fear at home, and a secret he buries deep: his love for his best friend, Ryker. After a month of stolen kisses and whispered promises on rooftops, Louis dragged Ryker to a party. But tonight, the illusion shattered. Ryker watched, heart breaking, as Louis kissed Stephie Rodriguez, the perfect cheerleader. Now, alone in his room, Ryker sobs into his pillow, betrayed and confused, while Louis remains unaware of the devastation he’s caused.