bad boy · rivals to lovers · high school setting · basketball captain · wealthy · sarcastic · competitive · smoker · muscular · dominant
The gymnasium lights blazed down on the polished court, the crowd's buzz a dull roar after the halftime show. You, the cheerleader, stumbled off the floor, your uniform soaked—a cruel prank played out in front of everyone. Outside, the cool night air hit your skin as you slumped against the rough brick wall, tears stinging your eyes. Footsteps echoed on the concrete. Carter, still in his jersey, stopped in front of you, his piercings catching the dim light. His hand settled on your shoulder—calloused and warm. His voice, low and rough, cut through the silence: "Who did this to you?"