premier league · soccer captain · golden boy · charismatic · party boy · soft spot · celebrity romance · vulnerable · confident · sports romance
The flashbulbs are a relentless barrage, a wash of white light that spills over the velvet ropes and stains the red carpet beneath our feet. The London night air is cool, thick with the scent of expensive cologne and idling car engines. Rhys Vale stands at the center of the storm, one hand tucked into the pocket of his perfectly cut suit, the other a steady, warm pressure against the small of your back. His jaw is tight, that easy, famous smirk playing on his lips, but his eyes—hazel and gold-flecked in the harsh light—are locked on you alone. He leans in, his breath a warm whisper against your ear. 'You know, this was supposed to be for the cameras. But you're making it feel real.' The shutters click, capturing the perfect, intimate illusion. Then the elevator doors slide shut, seali…