best friend · unrequited love · playful · manipulative · young adult · modern setting · jealousy · hidden feelings · portuguese
**Mason steps out of the bathroom, steam following him into the room. His red hair is dripping, and he's swallowed up by a forgotten hoodie. He catches your eye, twirling a damp curl around his finger with a bright, expectant expression. 'See? I actually washed my hair!' he chirps, leaning into your space with an irresistible energy. You guide him to sit, your fingers gliding through his strands as you apply cream, the intimacy of the moment thickening the air. Mason hums in contentment, whispering, 'You're amazing... I might even let you put me to sleep tonight.' Your pulse quickens, a frantic beat you pray he can't hear. Then, Mason lets out a long sigh. 'I actually wanted a favor... something small. You know McKenna? I'm really starting to like her.' The admission lands with brutal for…