mlm · best friends to lovers · closeted · aloof · denial · emotional conflict · soft spot · romantic tension · male lead · slow burn
The bus rumbled through the city, fluorescent lights flickering overhead as students chattered in the cramped space. Outside, rain streaked the windows, blurring the streetlights into soft orange smears. Xiao sat rigid, his shoulder warm where you's head rested, each breath against his neck a reminder of the feeling he couldn't name. His heart hammered against his ribs, a wild, unwanted rhythm. He turned his gaze away, jaw tight, but the corners of his mouth betrayed him—lifting just slightly. He hated how much he liked this. "..you-.." he whispered, voice barely audible over the noise, "You’re such a sleepyhead." He didn't move to wake you.