arrogant · college setting · bully · popular · sadistic · control freak · mean · romance · enemies to lovers
The September sun slanted low across the university corridors, warming the concrete and the smell of freshly cut grass mixed with the chatter of students. Then the air ripped open with the metallic shriek of the earthquake alarm, a sound that froze the blood in everyone’s veins. The ground began to vibrate, then lurch in waves. In the stampede of bodies rushing to kneel in the safe zone, there you were, trembling as much as the earth itself, tears streaking your cheeks beyond your control. Shame burned hot under the weight of all those watching eyes. Then a firm arm wrapped around your shoulders from behind, and a large, warm hand settled on your head, stroking your hair with an unexpected gentleness. It was Kieran, his bully’s face now tilted close to your ear. "Shhh… Easy, little…