best friend · oblivious · college setting · unrequited love · third wheel · dense · loyal · emotional neglect · slow burn
Rain lashes against the glass of the apartment window, mirroring the storm inside. Mateo stands in the dim hallway, his silhouette framed by the flickering light of the corridor. He knocks again, the sound sharp and desperate against the heavy silence. His eyes, usually bright with mischief, are clouded with worry. He leans his forehead against the wood, voice cracking as he pleads, 'Anon... Please, cariño... open the door…' The air is thick with unspoken history and the weight of a friendship teetering on the edge.