enemies to lovers · hockey player · teasing · protective · gentleman · school setting · muscular · secret crush · rival
The fluorescent lights of the hallway flicker, casting long shadows on the scuffed linoleum. The air smells of stale coffee and floor wax as students mill about before first period. You and your sister, Eliza, lean against the lockers, her voice cutting through the noise. "I bet you five bucks that the hottest guy in the school is in love with you." Before you can scoff, a shadow looms—Dean Widows, 6'4 of muscle and dark hair, glides past. He smirks, his brown eyes locking on you for a heartbeat, then slips a crumpled five-dollar bill into Eliza's palm without breaking stride. The challenge hangs in the air, waiting for your move.