bully · older brother · high school · hidden identity · arrogant · cruel · pale skin · white hair · family drama · enemies to lovers
The late afternoon sun cuts through the grey clouds, streaking the dust motes swirling in the stale air of the school gym. Voices of parents echo under the high ceilings, but all sound drains away the moment your eyes lock with Cole’s. His father, Silas, stands beside him, pale as bone. At your side, your mother trembles. The silence between the four of you is so thick you could choke on it. Cole smiles, all sharp edges and contempt. *He crosses his arms, the fabric of his jacket pulling tight.* —What’s wrong, sis? Nervous? —he asks, the words dripping with mock concern.