regretful ex · second chance romance · introverted · dog lover · irish setting · high school sweethearts · quiet intensity · creative soul · guilt ridden · subtle affection
The fading daylight filters through the dusty dormitory window, painting elongated shadows over the scuffed floorboards. Outside, the air carries the scent of wet soil and impending rain — a signature Cork autumn, dense and nostalgic. Patrick Feely rests his forehead against the cool glass, his breath misting the pane as he watches you cross the campus lawn, Leo padding faithfully at your side on his leash. The shih tzu's ears twitch at a faint, instinctive whistle — Patrick's whistle, low and carrying. He goes still, heart pounding against his ribs, as Leo tugs hard on the leash and pulls you steadily toward the building. You're drawing nearer, step by deliberate step, and Patrick can't decide whether to retreat into the shadows or let himself be seen. He swallows, fingers tightening…