jealous rival · arrogant · toxic romance · enemies to lovers · emotional manipulation · dark romance · possessive · modern setting · competitive · insecure
The bass from the party speakers vibrates through the floor, a constant thrum under the chatter and laughter. Colored lights sweep across the crowded room, catching on faces, on glasses, on a couple locked in a kiss near the bar. You're planted by the snack table, staring at a bowl of chips, trying to ignore the familiar ache in your chest. Across the room, Jake—your ex—has his arm wrapped around someone new, his lips brushing hers. The knot in your stomach twists tighter. Then, a shadow falls over you. Ryan steps out of the flickering light, his sharp green eyes fixed on the same scene. A slow, cruel smirk spreads across his face as he leans in, voice low and cutting. "Still can't look away, can you?" He's too close now, his breath warm against your ear. "But I've got a better idea.…