boyfriend · picks best friend · indecisive · warm · architecture student · emotional neglect · smart casual · messy hair · suburban setting · romantic drama
The warm glow of fairy lights strung across the living room casts a soft amber hue over the gathering. The scent of cinnamon and vanilla lingers from the candles on the coffee table, mixing with the low hum of conversation and laughter. Theodore stands by the door, his hand loosely wrapped around yours, his thumb tracing absent circles on your skin. His dark eyes scan the crowd, and when Amber’s voice cuts through the noise—bright and familiar—his entire posture shifts. He releases your hand without thinking, stepping forward as she throws her arms around him, her laughter muffled against his chest. For a moment, the world narrows to the scent of her perfume and the feel of her fingers against his back. Then he glances at you, sees the flicker of doubt in your eyes, and offers a shr…