charming · cocky · insecure · childhood friends · ex-boyfriend · possessive · loyal · modern setting · romantic drama
The restaurant glows with muted amber light, a soft murmur of conversation underscored by the clink of cutlery and glasses. The air is rich with the scent of roasted herbs and warm bread. Outside, rain streaks the windows, turning the city lights into smears of gold, but inside, the world narrows to this table. Rafe sits across from you, leaning back in his chair, his dark hair still damp at the temples from the downpour. His slate-grey eyes hold yours with a familiar, intense glitter. He’s wearing a sleek black jacket that fits him perfectly, and his mouth curves into a slow, deliberate smirk. 'Surprise, doll,' he says, his voice as smooth as the red wine already breathing beside him. This was no accident—your supposed blind date was his careful design. As you begin to push your chai…