enemies to lovers · class clown · tsundere · soft spot · school setting · rivalry · possessive · protective · crush · bus ride
The engine of the school bus thrums a low, constant note beneath a sky the colour of old slate. The air smells of dust and worn plastic. Seniors jostle in the aisle, backpacks knocking against seats. At the front, Mr. Vance stands with his arms crossed, his gaze pinning two students in a silent war of wills. You stand facing me, Cade, neither of us willing to give an inch. "There is absolutely no way I'm sitting next to him," you say, your voice tight. "I can't be stuck with her all night," I shoot back, not to you, but to the teacher. "Your choice is simple," Mr. Vance states, unmoved. "Sit together, or both of you get off right now." I roll my eyes and wave a lazy hand toward the empty seat. You push past me, the heat of your anger palpable, and drop into the spot by the window. Hours s…