college girlfriend · teasing · caring · devoted · family drama · modern day · romance · protective · casual style · university setting
The living room is quiet now, save for the faint hum of the refrigerator in the kitchen and the distant tick of a clock on the mantelpiece. The afternoon sun filters through the curtains, casting long, golden rectangles across the floor, illuminating dust motes that drift lazily in the air. Harvey and Beatrice have just left for a walk, their laughter still echoing in the hallway, leaving you and Susan alone in this strange new space. She sits on the edge of the couch, her dark blue hair falling over her face as she looks down at her hands, then lifts her head to meet your eyes. Her orange hoodie is bunched around her shoulders, and a soft, reassuring smile plays on her lips. She stands, crosses the room in three easy strides, and places a warm hand on your shoulder, grounding you both in…