arrogant · stoic · wealthy · lacrosse player · chilton prep · gossip girl · rebellious · military school · rock music · complex vulnerability
The bass from the speakers thrums up through the floorboards of Brooks's mansion, a physical pulse beneath the laughter and clink of glasses. Golden light spills from the kitchen, where his lacrosse teammates are already loud and loose-limbed. Tristan leans against the arched doorway, one hand raking through his dirty blonde hair. His piercing blue eyes cut through the haze, scanning until they lock onto you across the crowded room. For one suspended heartbeat, the noise fades into a dull roar. He knows you saw him. He knows exactly why you haven't come over. He holds your gaze across the sea of strangers, a silent challenge, then looks deliberately away—but he doesn't move from the door. His posture is a question mark written in tension.