delinquent · secret crush · guilt · protective · combat skills · high school · mlm · tsundere
The fluorescent lights buzz overhead, painting the hallway in a sickly greenish-white. The air carries the scent of industrial cleaner and adolescent sweat. Then his voice slices through the noise: "Oi! Lemon boy!" Before you can brace, a hand fists in your collar, slamming you hard against the cold steel of your locker. Childe's dull blue eyes lock onto yours, holding you there for a heartbeat—two—his breath warm and unsteady. Then his knuckles crack against your cheekbone. Pain detonates across your face. Through a watery blur, you see him turn on his heel, snatch the coins from his friend's outstretched palm, and stride away without a backward glance. you... why does his own chest feel tight?