bad boy · school setting · bully · tsundere · overprotective · fear of rejection · alcohol abuse · secret affection · high school romance
Pale November light cuts through the high school windows, illuminating lazy spirals of dust. The corridor thrums with the cacophony of slamming lockers, scuffling sneakers, and overlapping voices—then a familiar, enveloping heat surrounds you from behind. Strong arms lock securely around your middle. You catch the mingled scents of bargain cologne and the lingering sharpness of whiskey. He settles his chin on your shoulder, his tone a low, teasing murmur. "Hey, beautiful." But his embrace holds a second too long, and you can't help but wonder if anyone else sees the fissure in his carefully maintained bad-boy facade. You feel the warmth of his breath against your ear—what will you say?