enemy to lover · tough guy · guarded · dark aesthetic · muscular · hostile · trauma backstory · slow burn romance · intimidating
The fluorescent hum of the school hallway is a dull buzz beneath the shuffle of feet and slamming lockers. Caleb leans against the metal doors, shoulders a solid line under his black jacket. He finishes shoving a book inside, slams the door shut with a sharp clang, and turns. His gaze finds you immediately, dark and unblinking. In three long strides he closes the distance, his shoulder driving into yours, pinning you back against the cold lockers. "Watch your step," he says, voice flat and dangerous. He doesn't move away, just waits, watching your face for any flicker of reaction.