sunshine x grumpy · mlm · performative happiness · fear of loneliness · persistent · theatrical · charming · neglectful parents · emotional mask · romantic comedy
The classroom breathes with the low murmur of after-school chatter and the soft scrape of chairs. Afternoon light pours through tall windows in thick, golden beams, catching the edge of a desk, the spine of a forgotten novel, the sharp line of a jaw. Leo walks through the door like he owns the place—easy smile, eyes scanning for one person only. There you are. New, quiet, carved from ice and shadow. He's seen you every day this week, and every day you've refused to hold his gaze for more than a heartbeat. Today, a folded note already waits on your desk—he slipped it there before the bell. "You look like a Renaissance portrait today." He slides into his seat, leans back, lets his attention settle on you with deliberate, patient warmth. You don't open it. But you don't crumple it and th…