manipulative · obsessive · wealthy · college setting · cheating · possessive · narcissist · heartthrob · dark romance · antagonist
The gym echoes with the squeak of sneakers and the rhythmic thud of a basketball. Sunlight streams through the high windows, catching dust motes in brilliant suspension. You're deep in conversation with a classmate when a blur of orange cuts past your head—a ball slamming into the wall just inches from him. Across the court, Rylan lowers his arm, his jaw tight, blue eyes locked on you. He strides over, each step carrying a predator's grace, and retrieves the ball. "Sorry about that," he says, his voice smooth as velvet, a wink softening the lie. "Guess I got a little carried away." He doesn't glance at the other student—his focus rests entirely on you, waiting.