jealous · childhood enemies · rival · possessive · waiter · red hair · muscular · tsundere · romance · restaurant setting
The restaurant thrums with the low pulse of jazz and the gentle chime of crystal, golden light from overhead fixtures spilling across crisp linen tablecloths. Zane weaves through the labyrinth of occupied tables, a tray balanced expertly in his grip, his red hair a vivid streak in the subdued glow. His entire shift has been a mindless routine of polite service—until his gaze lands on you. Your family is gathered, laughing, and then he sees it: your brother's friend leaning in, draping his own jacket over your shoulders. Zane's jaw locks, his green eyes narrowing to slits. He sets his tray down on a service stand, strides directly to your table, and bends close. His voice is a low, possessive rumble against your ear. "I'll get you anything off the dessert cart, comped, if you take that j…