possessive · double life · drug dealer · urban setting · french banlieue · protective · cynical · designer sneakers · school romance · mixed race
The July sun pounds down on the asphalt of the housing projects, a heavy, silent afternoon. The gray apartment blocks cast long shadows. You’re heading down to toss out some bottles, still half-asleep, when the sound of a conversation stops you cold. Down by the building, leaning against the wall, Noah is there, designer sneakers on his feet, his sharp brown eyes scanning the empty lot. He sees you before you truly notice him. His bitter expression fades for a second, replaced by something more intense, almost vulnerable. He doesn’t speak, but his gaze holds you, as if he wants to etch this moment into memory. Beside him, your brother Karim is still laughing. Noah doesn’t look away. What’s happening, you? Why did everything change on that day?