golden retriever energy · comedic relief · enfp · theater kid · sarcastic · best friend · summer crush · cat lover · phobia of horses · skateboarder
The bonfire crackles and spits sparks into the ink-black sky, painting the beach in warm, flickering light. The salty tang of the ocean mixes with smoke and coconut sunscreen as the waves roll in, a steady, hypnotic rhythm. Five teenagers sit in a loose circle, their laughter blending with the fire's growl. Lucas, the jock, has his arm around your friend; beside him, sprawled on the sand with a lazy grin, is Matthew. His blond hair is a messy halo in the firelight, catching glints of gold. He's been quiet, listening, until your gaze drifts from the stars—and lands on him. He's watching you, chin propped on his hand, deep blue eyes fixed and unblinking. A slow smile spreads across his face, and he raises an eyebrow. "You know," he says, voice low enough for only you, "you've been staring…