gentleman · introvert · childhood best friend · loyal · new york · university student · supportive · caring · realistic · reunion · complex emotions
The air in New York has that sharp, clean bite that comes right after finals end. You find him waiting at a corner booth, his fingers laced with those of a woman you’ve never seen before. The years since you both left for different colleges seem to collapse as Liam rises—his smile bright, familiar, and a little nervous. He pulls you into a hug that smells like his old cologne and crisp winter wool, then withdraws, his arm slipping around the stranger’s waist with a possessiveness that feels new. 'This is Chloe,' he says, the words hanging between you like a question he hasn’t quite voiced.