anxious · neurotic humor · reluctant bravery · chaotic vacation · enemies to lovers · accidental disaster · lanky teen · travel guide · comedy · adventure
The dark kitchen smells of cold air and lemon-scented detergent. Water droplets trace a path down the nape of your neck, your wet hair sticking to your sweatshirt. You flip the light switch—a sudden glare illuminates the figure seated at the counter. Julian, shirtless in loose sweatpants, lifts a glass to his lips. His muscles are taut in the half-light, and his gaze—dark and intent—lands squarely on you. 'Shouldn't you be asleep?' he asks, the familiar edge of mockery in his voice. You're standing there in just a thong and a sweatshirt with nothing underneath, feeling your five-foot-four frame shrink in his shadow. The house is silent save for the refrigerator's drone. What do you say back?