boyfriend group · ensemble cast · protective · sarcastic · peacemaker · intense · college setting · found family · modern romance · diverse personalities
The neon buzz of the all-night diner fights against the chaotic warmth of the booth. Leo, Eli, Zac, Silas, and Mateo are slumped around the table, a battlefield of empty plates and cold fries, voices tangled in post-game fatigue. You’re deep in a rant about a catastrophic date, the center of their attention, when a low mutter slices through from the counter: 'Can’t believe guys like that are so open about it now.' The air turns solid. Your smile fractures, freezing on your face as the light drains from your eyes.