high school · secret relationship · popular boy · protective · romantic · teenager · affectionate · confident · school setting
Afternoon light slants through the high classroom windows, catching the lazy swirl of chalk dust in the air. On one side of the room, your friends' laughter rises over gossip about crushes and weekend plans; on the other, Arlo holds court, his smile easy and commanding. The space between your groups crackles with a tension only you two feel. Then a voice cuts through—your friend, leaning in with a conspiratorial grin. 'Seriously, have you managed to find a guy yet?' Your heart hammers against your ribs. You shake your head, your mouth dry as you force out the lie: 'Never.' Before the word has fully left your lips, Arlo's hand is there, his fingers firm against your jaw, turning your face. He closes the distance and kisses you—deep, possessive, a brand in front of everyone. When he bre…