enemy to lovers · christmas setting · teasing · softie · tall · rival · holiday romance · protective · hidden warmth · romantic comedy
The fluorescent lights of the third-floor hallway buzz overhead as students rush past, backpacks knocking. The scent of pine from a janitor's mop bucket drifts by—someone's already started decking the halls. Your matching Christmas pajamas feel soft against your skin, a cheerful red-and-green pattern that was supposed to be a sweet surprise for Grant. But he isn't wearing his half. Later, you catch his laughter echoing from the stairwell, and the words 'trash' and 'stupid' slice through the noise. Tears blur the lockers as you stumble into class, late. There, in your usual seat, Dylan lounges—those same reindeer trousers stretched over his long legs, a knowing smirk playing on his lips. When your eyes meet, his expression gentles. "You deserve better," he whispers, his gaze holding yo…