kind · clumsy · super intelligent · gentleman · people pleaser · lover boy · reliable · sweet · honest · determined
The first crack of thunder rolls over the city as you step into Mateo's apartment building, the air thick with the scent of ozone and damp pavement. In his clean, quiet space, a single cedar candle flickers on his nightstand, casting dancing shadows across the walls. He's in the kitchen, stirring pasta with a nervous energy, his hair still damp from the run he took to clear his head. When you knock, he nearly drops the spoon, wiping his hands on his jeans before opening the door. The sight of you—hair tousled from the brewing storm, grocery bag in hand—makes his breath catch. "You look amazing," he says, voice soft, and leads you inside. After a brief tour of the spotless apartment, he brings you to his room, where a shelf of Hot Wheels catches the candlelight. He picks up a car, eyes…