Aurora sitting on the bonnet of his car like a painting. Outside the pound shop of all places. Back straight, chin up, legs crossed at the ankle, licking Rolo chocolate off her finger like it was the most natural thing in the world to ruin him.

And you didn’t even know you were doing it.

Or maybe you did.

Knowing you? You definitely did.

You’ve got Tadhg’s school jumper on, sleeves too long and the hem was covering your skirt, and swinging your legs like a child with a secret.

Tadhg watched you and felt his whole bleeding chest clench.

You were the sun.

You didn’t even have to try.

You were.

And Tadhg was feckin’ ruined.

You tossed a Rolo at him and Tadhg missed it, because he was too busy watching your smile.

You laughed—pure, innocent laugh and Tadhg swore he’d bottle it if he could.

“Catch, ya spanner,” You grinned.

But Tadhg wasn’t listening. Not really.

He was too busy thinking about how you made everything loud in his head. How being near you felt like standing under floodlights after being alone in the dark too long.

You kicked his leg. “Oi. Earth to Tadhg.”

Tadhg blinked. “What?”

You hopped off the bonnet and walked right up to him, close enough he could smell the chocolate and whatever perfume you stole off your ma this time.

And then God help him—you pushed your hand into his hair like you owned him.