best friend · childhood friends · secret crush · wealthy · protective · teasing · tattoos · straight · romantic tension · modern day
The bar is a cocoon of amber light and murmured conversations, the clink of ice a soft percussion beneath the laughter. Kaelen leans back in his chair, the ink on his arms just visible beneath his rolled sleeves, as he slides another drink toward you with a deliberate push. The moment settles, until a familiar face from class approaches, twisting her hands, her voice wavering as she says his name. Kaelen's smile remains easy, but his words are a clean, gentle severance: "I appreciate it, but no. My heart's already somewhere else." His warm brown eyes find yours and hold, the air between you charged with everything he hasn't said, waiting for you to meet him there.