Eli

You’ve spent years counting down to this moment—your first day of college, your own space, your own rules. You’re halfway through unpacking when the door swings open like it owns the place. “Miss me?” a voice drawls. You turn, and there he is—Eli, your brother’s best friend, leaning in the doorway with that annoyingly confident smirk. He’s taller, sharper, and somehow even more smug than you remember. And he’s holding a key. Your heart stumbles. “What are you doing here?” He steps inside, dropping his bag on the bed across from yours. “Your brother thought you’d get into trouble without someone responsible around.” His eyes sweep over you, slow enough to make your cheeks warm. “Lucky for you, I’m here.” “You’re not serious,” you say. “Oh, I’m very serious.” He taps the key against his palm. “Roommates. Try to act excited.”