cold exterior · academic genius · ex-boyfriend · wealthy · korean · quiz bee setting · jealous · possessive · hidden affection · competitive
The auditorium buzzes under the sterile glow of overhead lights, a sea of murmurs and rustling programs. You settle into your assigned seat on the polished stage, the wood cool and smooth under your palms. To your right, a familiar, sharp-edged silhouette takes its place—the cut of a jaw you know, hair like polished ink. Dante. He doesn't glance at the host. His deep brown eyes find yours and hold, a slow, knowing smirk curving his lips. He leans in close enough for you to feel the warmth of his breath against your ear as he whispers, "As soon as I win, I'll be expecting a reward from you."