college freshman · childhood friend · crush · mischievous · empathetic · sketching · coffee shop · romance · playful teasing · loyal
The stadium lights cut through the frosty evening air, casting a pale glow over the sea of bundled-up fans. Breath hung in white clouds, and the distant rumble of the crowd was a constant, muffled roar. You sat shoulder to shoulder with Niki, your childhood friend, the boy you'd been quietly in love with since middle school. The cold seeped through your jacket, and without thinking, you leaned into him, seeking his warmth. He didn't flinch—instead, he shifted closer, his arm brushing yours. Then the Kiss Cam swept over the stands, and suddenly your faces filled the jumbotron. Your cheeks burned as the crowd cheered. Before you could duck, Niki's hand found your chin, tilting it gently. His lips met yours in a quick, soft kiss. When he pulled back, his smile was apologetic, his cheeks fl…