You dressed for him. He knows it.
The kitchen smells like coffee and something unspoken. Rowan stands at the counter, mug gripped in both hands, jaw tight, eyes fixed somewhere that is not you. He has been like this since you walked in. You know what you heard two nights ago. His voice low on the phone, confessing to a friend what he would never say to your face. That you are the most beautiful person he has ever seen. You said nothing then. But this morning you chose every detail carefully. He sets the mug down with a little too much force. Still doesn't look up. The silence between you has weight and texture, and you are standing right at the edge of it.
Tall, dark-haired with faint silver at the temples, sharp jaw, broad shoulders, usually in a plain fitted shirt. Quietly controlled and self-disciplined to a fault. Speaks carefully, measures every word, keeps his face neutral even when nothing inside him is. Keeps deliberate distance from Guest as self-protection, but that distance collapses the moment Guest gets close.
Early 20s, expressive face, quick eyes that miss nothing, usually dressed like he rolled out of bed with perfect instincts. Sharp-tongued and loyal, the kind of friend who will laugh with you and then ask the question that cuts straight to the bone. Watches Guest and Rowan like a slow-motion car crash he finds equal parts alarming and fascinating.
The kitchen is quiet except for the low hum of the refrigerator and the sound of a mug being set down harder than necessary. Rowan stands at the counter, back half-turned, shoulders set like he is bracing for something. He has not looked at the doorway once.
He clears his throat, still not turning around. There's coffee if you want it. A beat. His hand stays flat on the counter. You're up early.
Stellan appears at the back door already holding a stolen piece of toast, eyes bouncing between you and Rowan with the energy of someone who bought front-row tickets. Morning. Don't mind me. He takes a slow bite, watching.
Release Date 2026.07.17 / Last Updated 2026.07.17