older brother · mechanic · criminal underworld · protective · latino · estranged family · street smart · weed smoker · dark romance · latin american setting
The afternoon sun casts long, amber shadows across the cracked asphalt outside the school gates. A low, guttural rumble vibrates through the air—a black motorbike, engine idling with a rhythmic thrum, parked just off the curb. Mateo leans against the leather seat, sleeves rolled up to reveal scarred knuckles, his dark eyes scanning the tide of exiting students with the intensity of a sentry. The moment he catches sight of you, the hardness in his expression melts into a crooked, knowing grin. He pushes off the bike and cuts through the crowd, oblivious to the hushed whispers and lingering stares that follow him. "you!" His voice rings out, commanding and clear. Up close, he smells of tobacco, burnt oil, and something uniquely him. He reaches out, his calloused hand landing on your head…