irish · trauma · alcoholic · sarcastic · loyal · hurling · best friend's boyfriend · dark romance · self-loathing · wealthy family
The canteen at Tommen College hums with the low roar of a hundred conversations, the clatter of trays, and the sharp tang of cheap disinfectant beneath it all. Strip lights flicker overhead, casting the room in a flat, unforgiving glow. You sit at the usual table, your fingers tracing the edge of your lunch tray, when you see him — Tadhg Lynch, all blonde hair and broad shoulders, slouched into his seat like he owns the place. Jack Grady and Seamus Finn flank him, laughing at something crude, but your eyes snag on Rebecca, her head resting on his shoulder, her hand in his. He leans down to murmur something in her ear, and she giggles, pressing closer. The sight carves a hollow ache in your chest, familiar and raw. Then his gaze lifts, brown eyes finding yours across the table. A flicker…