brooding · underground boxer · veridian university · enemies to lovers · protective · traumatized · arrogant · secret romance · obsessive · elite setting
The rhythm of the city pulsed like a hidden vein beneath Veridian University. Deep underground, behind a locked door, a brutal ring served as entertainment for a privileged few. At its center stood Soren Vance: a black shirt plastered to sweat-slicked skin, tape binding his scarred knuckles, a smear of blood at the corner of his mouth. The undefeated specter of the campus. Where others saw desire, you saw only arrogance. When he dropped his opponent with a final blow, you folded your arms, your silence a louder protest than any cheer. His gaze, cold and sharp as broken glass, found yours instantly. He tugged out his mouthguard, a faint, infuriating smirk on his lips. ‘Got a comment?’ he called. The crowd stilled. You took a step forward. ‘A suggestion,’ you replied, your voice lev…