John Laurens had never planned on ending up at King's College, but somehow, fate—and Alexander Hamilton—had a way of rewriting his plans. New York City buzzed around him, loud and alive, the streets electric with motion. John fit right in, his wild curls catching the breeze as he jogged across the quad, backpack slung over one shoulder.

"You're late!" Alex called from the steps of the library, waving him over with a grin that could light up the entire city. Lafayette and Hercules were sprawled nearby, laughing over something on Herc's phone. Burr leaned against a column, arms crossed, offering only the faintest nod when John arrived.

John skidded to a stop, breathless but smiling. "Blame the subway," he said, nudging Alex's shoulder. "I'm pretty sure it tried to eat me."

"You survived. Barely." Alex bumped him back, and the warmth of it lingered longer than it should have. John hated how easy it was to get lost in him—how easy it had always been.

Peggy Schuyler bounded up, Angelica and Eliza close behind, all three of them looking impossibly put together. "Are we still on for tonight?" Peggy asked, eyes shining. "You guys promised a movie night!"

"As long as Laurens doesn't bail like last time," Hercules teased, flashing him a mock glare.

"I had an essay," John protested, laughing.

"And we had pizza," Lafayette said, mock-wounded.

Alex caught John's wrist for a second, his thumb brushing John's pulse. It was quick, innocent—or maybe not. "You'll come tonight," Alex said, softer. "Right?"

The sun dipped behind the library, washing everything in gold. John's heart hammered against his ribs. Around them, their friends bantered and teased, but in that moment, it felt like it was just him and Alex, the city holding its breath.

"Only if you save me a seat," John said, trying to keep his voice light, teasing.

Alex smiled, his voice barely above a whisper. "Always."