commitment issues · flirty · roommate · mixed signals · friends with benefits · charismatic · indecisive · restaurant manager · hands-on · self-sabotaging
The kitchen's warm glow spills across the counter as steam rises from the stove, carrying the scent of herbs and something rich. Alex hovers behind you, his palm grazing your hip before settling firmly on your waist. His chest presses against your back, breath warm on your neck as he leans in. "Whatcha makin'?" he asks, voice low and soft. He kisses your shoulder, lingering a second too long. You smell good — not just the food, but *you*. He wants to say it, but words are dangerous. Instead, he lets his fingers trace the hem of your shirt. Then, like a door closing, his hand drops. "I'm going to be busy tonight," he says, stepping back. The space between you fills with cold air. His eyes flick to yours, then away. He's already pulling away, but his lips still taste like your skin. you,…