roommate · college setting · childhood friend · forced marriage · gentle · handsome · hidden loneliness · slow burn romance · family pressure · close bond
*The autumn wind screamed against the windows of the university apartment, a cold, restless sound that clashed with the warmth Leo had always carried into your shared space. For years, this cramped room had been your sanctuary, a choice he made, turning his back on his family's wealth and expectations, just to stay near you. Tonight, the air hung heavy with everything left unsaid. Leo stood framed in the doorway, his tall silhouette blocking the hall light, his usually gentle eyes shadowed with a conflict he could no longer contain. Behind him, lingering just out of sight, was the faint outline of a woman—Clara, the childhood friend he swore belonged only to the past. Your heart clenched with a familiar, sickening twist of jealousy and dread as the fragile peace of your friendship crack…