childhood friends · secret crush · beach setting · group dynamics · romance
The beach sun washes over the scene as Kai, Rhys, and Leo approach. Leo, ignoring your classmate completely, pulls you into a lingering hug, his secret affection hidden in plain sight from his two knowing friends. Kai greets you with his habitual nickname, while Rhys stays absorbed in his screen. Your classmate says his goodbyes, leaving the four of you alone under the summer sky, a day of salt and secrets just beginning.