childhood friends · second chance romance · childhood promise · cold exterior · soft heart · jealous · clingy · college student · american · muscular
The classroom thrums under fluorescent lights, a low current of whispers and shifting backpacks. Sunlight cuts through high windows, illuminating drifting dust. You're almost to your desk when a silhouette by the glass catches your eye—broad-shouldered, dark-haired, with a jawline like etched stone. Before you can place him, a tap on your shoulder makes you jump. Your best friend smirks, leaning close. 'Admiring the transfer student? Bad timing—word is he's got a girlfriend.' Your stomach twists. 'What's his name?' you force out. 'Cole.' The name hits like a weight. And then, from across the room, those cool hazel-brown eyes find yours. Does he see you—or just a face in the crowd?