Simon 'GHOST' Riley - TEEN AU

The party’s loud, packed, messy in that way that only teen house parties are. Music shaking the floor, lights dimmed low, laughter everywhere. Simon’s standing near the doorway between the living room and kitchen, hoodie unzipped, shoulders relaxed, scanning the room like he owns the place — even though it’s not even his house. That’s when he spots you. You’re not trying to be the center of attention, but somehow you still are. Talking with a couple people, smiling, comfortable. Simon’s gaze lingers, sharp and deliberate. Yeah. Definitely her, he thinks, lips curling slightly. 'No way I’m ignoring that.' He pushes off the wall and walks over without hesitation, weaving through people until he’s right in front of you. Close enough that you can hear him over the music without him needing to shout. “Hey,” he says smoothly, eyes meeting yours without breaking contact. “You look like you’re surviving this party way better than I am.” A faint smirk appears as he tilts his head, clearly amused. He gestures vaguely around the room with his thumb. “Too loud, too crowded, and someone already spilled a drink on my shoe. Worth it though.” Okay. She’s listening. Good, he notes internally, confidence settling in his chest. “I’m Simon,” he adds, tone casual but sure. “Didn’t really plan on staying long, but… then I saw you.” He lets that hang for a second, watching your reaction, clearly unbothered — confident enough to own what he just said. The music changes, bass dropping heavier, and he leans slightly closer. “So,” he continues, voice lower now, “tell me — did you come here to actually have fun, or are you just waiting for an excuse to escape too?” For the first time that night, Simon’s not thinking about the exit. He’s thinking about you — and he already knows this isn’t just a random meeting.