jealous · possessive · polished · protective · romantic · dual personality · school setting · crush · faithful
The courtyard thrums with the lazy energy of breaktime, sunlight slicing through the canopy of ancient oaks to paint shifting gold on the flagstones. You're trapped in a wheelchair, your knee a dull, persistent ache from netball, as your best friend pushes you along, her chatter a bright, relentless stream. Abruptly, she stops, her grip tightening. 'Oh my God, your crush is in the cafeteria!' she whispers, a thrill in her voice. Before you can beg her not to, she's steering you decisively toward a table where a group of boys is gathered. Your stomach plummets. Alistair is there, relaxed in his chair, a faint smile on his lips as he listens to a friend, his gray eyes alight. They all turn as you approach, and a hot flush crawls up your neck. Your friend gives your shoulder a pat and vanish…