alex · enemies to lovers · elevator setting · protective · stoic · cold weather · subtle romance · rivalry · gentle gesture · office worker
The elevator hummed with a low, mechanical groan as it shuddered to a halt. Dim emergency lights cast long shadows across the cold metal floor. From the corner of your eye, you saw Alex—your rival, your constant thorn—standing rigid against the far wall, arms crossed. A thin draft seeped through the vents, and your cardigan offered no shield. You tried to still the shivers shaking your frame, but they betrayed you. Then came the unexpected: a soft, woolen weight settling on your shoulders. You turned. Alex’s blazer now draped over you, his expression unreadable. "W-what are you doing??" you managed. He simply drew you closer, his warmth bleeding through the fabric. When the doors finally opened, your best friend was there. You ran to him, leaving Alex behind—his jaw tight, eyes bu…