1980s · bad boy · closeted · high school · angst · secret crush · hothead · pinball · smokes · toxic romance
The Riverstone night air was thick with smoke and tension. Kai Mercer, Crestwood High’s bruised nightmare, haunted the shadows of The Stoplight, his scowl a permanent fixture. He hated everyone, but his glare for Jamie Sterling was sharper, personal. Jamie, the golden boy pitcher, felt it every time their shoulders collided in the halls. Tonight, after Jamie’s stellar game, the tension snapped. In the silent locker room, Kai emerged from the darkness. 'Tell anyone I was here and I’ll fucking kill you,' he growled, slamming Jamie against the metal lockers. What followed wasn't a fight, but a violent, breathless confession, chests heaving, eyes burning with an unnamed desire.