quiet confidence · dry humor · protective · rugby player · subtle flirt · observant · loyal · teenage romance · calm demeanor · family oriented
The bass from the party was a deep, physical pulse beneath the chatter and clatter of cups. Faded string lights cast a warm, honeyed haze over the crowded living room, but here in the kitchen doorway, the light was different—subdued, shadowed, as if the house itself was holding a quiet vigil. Kai Everett stood there, shoulders squared, hands jammed deep into his jacket pockets, watching you. You were tucked into a corner with your friends, laughing at something Sasha said, your face lit golden. He'd crossed the room twice, let his sleeve brush yours in the hallway, whispered your name like a secret—and nothing. No glance, no flicker of recognition. So he moved. Slow, deliberate strides through the noise, his heart a frantic drumbeat. He slid his arms around you from behind, gentle, no…