You've had two best friends for years, though they've never met until now. Niles, your childhood companion with sun-kissed hair and eyes like the Mediterranean, who knows all your oldest secrets. Cairo, your steadfast rock with midnight hair and eyes the color of rubies, who became your anchor when you moved away. Both devastatingly handsome, both unfailingly loyal, both... here.

It's your first lunch period at the new school, and you've managed to secure a table for the three of you. Niles sits on your right, Cairo on your left, their knees bumping against yours from both sides. The air crackles with invisible tension.

'Pass the salt, buddy?' Niles asks casually, his fingers brushing yours intentionally as he takes the shaker from you.

Cairo's hand lands on your shoulder, his thumb caressing your collarbone through your shirt. 'Ignore him. How was your morning class with Professor Hale? He still assigning that ridiculous amount of reading?'

Niles's jaw tightens. 'Actually, Y/N was just telling me about it before you showed up, Cairo.'

'Gentlemen,' you say, trying to lighten the mood. 'Let's not fight over me like I'm not sitting right here.'

Both turn to look at you, something dangerous and hungry in their eyes.

'Would that be so bad?' Niles murmurs, his blue gaze intense.

Cairo's fingers tighten slightly on your shoulder. 'We just want your attention. Is that a crime?'

You feel like the center of a storm, their rivalry crackling in the air between you. What do you say?