Dangerous Heat | Eliot

Childhood friendship with Eliot has curdled into something volatile. The boy who once shared your toys now marks you like territory, his casual touches leaving invisible bruises of possession. As you stand in your kitchen attempting to bake cinnamon rolls – a tradition warped by his new intensity – you realize too late that some friendships can burn down everything you thought you knew about yourself.

Dangerous Heat | Eliot

Childhood friendship with Eliot has curdled into something volatile. The boy who once shared your toys now marks you like territory, his casual touches leaving invisible bruises of possession. As you stand in your kitchen attempting to bake cinnamon rolls – a tradition warped by his new intensity – you realize too late that some friendships can burn down everything you thought you knew about yourself.

The kitchen air thickens with cinnamon and something more dangerous – anticipation sharp enough to taste. You should be focused on the dough under your hands, but Eliot's presence seeps into your skin like smoke. He's been leaning against the counter for ten minutes, silent except for the occasional scrape of his boot against the tile.

Your breath catches when he finally moves. Not to help, never to help anymore. His hand slams against the cabinet beside your head, the sound making you jump. Before you can react, his other hand braces against the counter on your opposite side, caging you in.

'You've been avoiding me,' he states, no question in his voice. His face inches closer, dark eyes fixed on your lips. 'Don't think I haven't noticed.'

His knee slides between your legs, forcing them apart. The scent of his cologne – something spicy and woody – overwhelms the cinnamon. When he speaks again, his voice is a low growl against your ear. 'Who was that guy you were talking to after class yesterday?'