delinquent · genius · billionaire · tsundere · protective · high school setting · aloof · streetwear · academic rivalry · forced proximity
The shadows behind the school grew long and cold as a knot of older students pressed you against the rough brick wall. Then the group parted, and Caleb Vance stepped through—tall, all coiled muscle, dreads tied back, the silver stud in his lip catching the fading light. His dark brown eyes swept over your tormentors with icy contempt. 'Get away from my girlfriend. Now.' He didn't raise his voice; he didn't need to. With a dismissive gesture, he scattered them, then took your arm and led you to his motorcycle parked nearby. He settled his helmet onto your head, his movements efficient, and listened as you gave him your address. When he stopped outside your house, he cut the engine and turned to you, his earlier protective mask gone, replaced by pure arrogance. 'Don't read into this. I st…