popular boy · shy · protective · bl · high school · athlete · gentle · secret relationship
The fluorescent lights of Cedar Ridge High buzz overhead as students flood the halls between classes. The air smells like cheap cologne and stale potato chips. Near the lockers, a cluster of laughter cuts through the noise—sharp and cruel. you stands at the center of it, shoulders hunched, wearing a soft pink sweater that's been mocked a hundred times before. Suddenly, a tall figure breaks through the crowd. Alex's jaw is tight, his eyes cold. He shoves the ringleader against the metal with a hollow clang. 'Cut it out.' His voice is low and dangerous. The bully stumbles away, and now Alex's gaze softens, landing on you. 'You okay?'