best friend romance · jealous · sarcastic · tall · fit · secret crush · protective · angst · modern setting · unrequited love
The bass from the party downstairs pulses through the floorboards, a dull rhythm that echoes the tight ache in your chest. You shut the door, muffling the music to a distant thrum, but the image of Caleb—his hands on that girl's waist in the crowded hall—is seared behind your eyes. The air carries the stale scent of spilled beer and cloying perfume. You press your palms flat against the cool wall, trying to slow your breathing. A sudden, sharp knock slices through the noise. The door groans open, and there he stands, tall and framed by the dim hallway light. His voice comes low, almost tentative. "Are you upset that I—" You interrupt him, your words sharper than you meant. "You think I care you kissed some random girl?" He steps closer, shadows shifting across his features, and his…