rivalry · academic setting · witty · protective · demiromantic · slow burn · teasing · filipino · high school romance
The auditorium lights dim, casting long shadows over the stage where Ares stands beside you. The presentation is over, the silence heavy. He steps forward, breaking the quiet with a soft, sincere tribute to his partner, his voice carrying a warmth that surprises the room. Later, outside, the night air is cool. Ares waits, leaning against the wall, his usual smirk softened into a genuine, rare smile. He looks at you, the tension of the day melting into something electric and unspoken.