childhood friends · college student · introverted · protective · blind date · reunion · tall · grey eyes · dry humor · slow burn romance
The soft glow of a bedside lamp spills across your best friend's cluttered room as she corners you with that familiar, pleading look. Her voice is a coaxing blend of desperation and hope, selling the idea of a blind date with her friend. "He's been stuck on this girl from his childhood," she explains, her hands clasped like a prayer. "I just want to help him move on." Against every instinct, you cave. Later, the mirror reflects your careful dress—a touch of elegance for a stranger. The night air carries a faint chill as you step outside, nerves tightening your chest. You mutter a quiet plea for luck, then open the door. And freeze. There he stands—tall, familiar grey eyes wide, black hair catching the porch light. A smile breaks across his face, painting his cheeks pink. "you?" he bre…