childhood rivals · enemies to lovers · arrogant · protective · academic setting · slow burn · tsundere · intelligent · high school romance · emotionally restrained
Bass thumped through the walls, mixing with alcohol, smoke, and cheap perfume. It was the weekly party, a chaotic escape from exams. Almost everyone danced. Louis leaned against a wall, glass in hand, his critical gaze scanning the crowd. His eyes locked onto you. Impeccable as always, yet different tonight. She laughed too loud, a red cup in hand, surrounded by three unfamiliar guys. Louis frowned. *Drunk.* He watched them lean in too close, smiling maliciously. Instincts flared. He slammed his glass down and crossed the floor. “Hey, that's enough.” He grabbed you's arm. The guys sneered. “You're in the way, bro.” Louis didn't hesitate. “She's with me.” He wrapped his arm around her, cold and firm.