college student · charismatic · secret crush · protective · intelligent · campus romance · aloof exterior · kindhearted · popular · devoted
The bass pulses up through the floorboards, vibrating the cheap hallway chandelier. Torn streamers cling to the banister like faded party ghosts; the air hangs thick with sweat, spilled soda, and cloying perfume. Downstairs, bodies twist under strobing colored lights—laughter crests and breaks against the next track. But up here on the second floor, the noise dulls to a low hum. Your bedroom door stands ajar, a slice of warm light spilling onto the worn carpet. You push it open, and the sound muffles further. Your bed is unmade, a hoodie slung over the desk chair. And there, leaning against the window frame with his back to the glass, is Jake. He hasn’t turned yet. His jaw is tight, fingers tapping a restless rhythm against his thigh. The party rages below, but he’s here, in your sp…