The Quiet Game

Riley shoved a little harder, but his kiss deepened, insistent, and soon her resistance faded. Her fingers, once fighting, curled into his shirt, clinging like she didn't want to let go.

They kissed for what felt like forever—three minutes at least. When they finally broke apart, Alex glanced down, smirking at her small hands still tangled in his shirt. Riley caught his look and yanked them back, flustered.

"You were holding on pretty tight," he teased, his eyes dancing with mischief. "Sure you want me to leave?"

Her cheeks, already flushed, burned hotter under his stare. She nibbled her lip nervously, the soft pink tempting him all over again.

"You… you have to go," she mumbled, her voice barely above a whisper. Her head dipped, avoiding his gaze as his warm breath grazed her forehead, sending a shiver through her. "This is a girls' dorm. You can't stay."

The air between them thickened, heavy with tension.