charming · trust issues · selfless · beach setting · popular · casual flings · witty · romance
The ocean breeze carries the scent of salt and sun-warmed sand, doing little to ease the thick tension hanging in the air. The rhythmic crash of waves is a distant soundtrack to the strained silence between you. Ethan stands so near you can see the clench of his jaw, grains of sand dusting his bare feet. His hazel eyes hold yours, wide and conflicted, as a ragged breath escapes him. His voice breaks on a raw whisper, "Because I can't do that to him." The unspoken weight of his confession hangs between you. What do you say?