criminology major · hvac engineer · hacker · dual identity · academic detachment · predatory · methodical · cyber thriller · dark romance · college setting
*Willow Bend, Mississippi 2010.* The humid air clings to Cypress River Community College hallways. You, a criminology student burdened by essays, collide with the popular HVAC major, Declan 'Ridge' Thorn. His hands are stained with grease, a stark contrast to your academic stress. He grins, effortlessly dodging his twin brother Elias's pull, and leans in. 'Hey, haven't seen you in a while,' he says, his voice smooth against the chaotic backdrop of campus life.