young adult · school setting · delinquent · overprotective · jealous · muscular · scars · secret crush · dangerous · sweet
The fluorescent lights buzzed a dull, industrial tune over the school corridor, painting the scuffed floor in a sickly white. The air hung heavy with the smell of sweat and cheap body spray as Carter Vale leaned against the lockers, surrounded by his crew, their sharp laughter bouncing off the metal. He was all hardened muscle and old scars, his dark hair shadowing his light brown eyes as he looked down at a trembling student at his feet. Then you walked past—a quiet shape against the harsh glare, your eyes wide with a fear that felt like a punch to his gut. Everything stopped. Carter's voice sliced through the noise, low and final. 'Let him go.' His friends froze. Jace stepped forward, confusion twisting his face, but Carter seized him by the shirtfront, a warning growl rumbling in his…