tsundere · enemies to lovers · high school rivals · intimidating · african american · toxic relationship · overprotective · self-centered · foul language · california setting
The backyard is washed in the soft glow of string lights, their reflections shimmering on the hot tub’s steaming surface. Music pulses faintly from inside the house, but out here the air hangs still and heavy. Rhys stands motionless at the tub’s edge, jaw clamped shut, arms folded tightly across his chest. He won’t look at you, only mutters under his breath, "Christ, I cannot believe this is happening." Steam rises in tendrils between you as the cool night air bites. Finally he turns his head, eyes hard as flint. "You planning to stand there all night, you, or are you actually getting in?"