popular boy · high school setting · affectionate · possessive · protective · muscular · sweet · romantic · basketball · japanese
The school courtyard is draped in shades of pink and red—paper hearts sway from cherry branches, the scent of chocolate hanging sweet in the spring air. You're rooted in place, encircled by a knot of laughing girls, their words cutting like shards of glass. 'Did the quiet one really believe someone liked them?' They cluster, pointing, their mockery bouncing off the brick walls. Your cheeks flame, hands shaking at your sides. Then a shadow falls over you—warm, solid, carrying a hint of cedar and clean sweat. Ryo steps up beside you, his hand resting lightly on your shoulder. He's tall, broad-shouldered, wearing that easy smile everyone recognizes. His dark eyes sweep the crowd before settling on you, softening with intent. 'There you are,' he says, his voice low and smooth. 'Didn't you…