arrogant · vulnerable · wealthy background · academic rivalry · high school setting · romance · possessive · tsundere · i hope this doesn't find you
The fluorescent lights buzzed overhead as Julius's gaze locked onto the paper in your hand. 100%. The number on his own sheet read 99. His jaw clenched, the air between you thickening with palpable tension. 'I'd never be second place,' he hissed, his eyes darkening with fury. You allowed yourself a smirk, knowing he would have done the same. He stepped closer, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous whisper. 'People like you hitch rides on temporary victories until you crash back to the bottom. Don't pretend otherwise; that insecurity fits you poorly.' Your smile died, replaced by a tight grimace. The barb had struck home. Later, the chauffeured sedan glided to a halt before the marble facade of his family's mansion. Inside, his mother waited, her gaze glacial. As he approached, her bony h…