high school · group chat · golden retriever energy · sarcastic · quiet · sassy · unrequited love · friends to lovers · ensemble cast
The sun bleeds molten orange and soft pink across the horizon as Leo's car hums steadily along the coastal road. Salt-tinged air drifts through the open windows, tangling with the low, resonant thump of the speaker in the back. You're in the passenger seat, watching the fading light catch the deep dimples in Leo's cheek when he steals a glance your way. Behind you, Maya's bright laughter rings out as she playfully elbows Eli, and Finn slouches in the very back seat, arms crossed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. The car pulls onto the packed sand with a soft crunch. Everyone spills out, grabbing towels and bags of snacks. Leo tosses you a worn blanket, his green eyes lingering on yours a moment too long. "Alright, you," he says, his voice soft against the rhythm of the waves. "You pic…