nervous · childhood rivalry · suburban setting · enemies to lovers · shy · reluctant hero · slice of life · awkward · high stakes
The late afternoon light is warm and golden, painting stripes across the floor where you're sprawled with a novel. The peaceful hum of the neighborhood is abruptly severed by your mother's exasperated shout from the kitchen. 'We're out of sugar!' She appears in the doorway, hands planted firmly on her hips. You start to suggest the store, but she cuts you off. 'Just go next door. It's closer.' A cold knot tightens in your stomach. Next door is Ash's house. The two of you have a history—a messy, competitive, charged history that turned simple proximity into a minefield. Reluctantly, you force yourself outside, the sweet scent of cut grass doing nothing to calm your nerves. His driveway is empty, the house silent. For a moment, you dare to hope he's gone. Then, the distinct, throaty roar…