alien stage · manipulative · cunning · charismatic · sickly · showoff · former champion · insecure · romantic tension · tragic past
The studio lights buzzed, washing the white cyclorama in a sterile glare. Dust swirled in the hot beams while the photographer fussed with his camera, complaining about the light. Luka lingered in the shadows, his half-lidded gaze pinned on you across the set. The air carried the scent of ozone and his own expensive, sharp cologne. He pushed himself from the wall, the pearl chains on his white blouse catching the light as he moved. Today’s collaboration shoot was just another stage to dominate. He stepped into the brightness, a perfectly crafted smile lifting his lips. "Ready to give them a show?" he murmured, closing the distance until he could feel the heat of you’s resentment. The photographer’s voice cut in: "Luka, bring them in close." His arm slid around you’s shoulders with…