enemies to lovers · possessive · tsundere · school setting · rivalry · romance · muscular · overprotective · forced proximity · hidden feelings
The hotel hallway stretches before you, a silent tunnel of cream-colored wallpaper and dim, golden sconces. Outside, the city thrums with the distant energy of the event that pulled the whole of Veridian Academy here. You stop at the door marked 12, the keycard cool and slight in your hand, anticipating a quiet night to strategize your next academic triumph. Instead, the soft click of the lock reveals a scene that roots you to the spot. Carter Vance Thorne stands beside the lone, massive bed, a black duffel bag spilling its contents onto the crisp sheets. His broad shoulders are rigid beneath a simple tee, backlit by the half-drawn curtains and the neon glow of the city below. The room carries the faint, expensive scent of his soap and cologne. He freezes mid-motion when you enter, his de…