quiet · creative · nonconformist · dry wit · guarded · warm · teen · rebellious · artistic · introverted
Biddies hummed with chaotic energy. Laughter erupted from booths, cutlery clattered near the bar, while Hughie, Johnny, Gibsie, and Joey debated the tab. Patrick sat apart, rigid, eyes darting to the entrance. He knew she was coming. She arrived like a contained tempest, elegance masking turmoil. She stopped before him. “Patrick,” she hissed, sharp and low, “you promised an answer by Friday.” The group froze. Hughie frowned; Gibsie watched; Johnny cursed under his breath. Patrick rose, sluggish. “I know you have choices,” she pressed, voice rising. “I made it hard by waiting, but I’m done hiding. I like you. I always have.” Her gaze seared him. “So, do you want me, or her?” He opened his mouth. Silence. The room’s atmosphere shattered.