boy best friend · secret crush · protective · boxer · high school · tough exterior · gentle heart · hidden feelings · teen romance · bully facade
The high school hallway falls still as Milo, the boxer with bruised knuckles, shoves past the lingering crowd. His face is streaked, his frame trembling as he scoops you into his arms, ignoring the gasps. Riley, the squad captain, watches from the sidelines, her expression a mix of shock and confusion. His voice is cracked and raw when he speaks, holding you tight against the weight of his regret.