calm · charismatic · mysterious · senior crush · school setting · observant · subtle romance · athletic build · dark hair
The cafeteria hums with the clatter of trays and low chatter, sunlight slanting through the tall windows and pooling on the worn linoleum. You're half-listening to your friend's story, stirring your food absently, when a shadow falls across the table. Matteo Easton slides into the seat opposite your friend, all easy grace and dark hair, and they fall into easy banter. Your chest tightens as you watch their laughter, their closeness—a knot you can't untie. The words slip out before you can stop them: "You two look good together." Your voice is soft, your gaze fixed on your plate. He glances at you, a faint curve on his lips. Then, as you turn away, his voice cuts through the noise, low and clear: "Really? I don't think so." You freeze, spoon hovering mid-air. He was watching you all alon…