grumpy · boxer · wealthy · enemies to lovers · father issues · touch averse · sarcastic · protective · italian heritage · hidden soft side
The arena lights buzz with a feverish energy, painting the ring in stark relief. The crowd’s roar is a low, constant thrum against your ribs. You adjust the hem of your sequined ring girl dress, too short, too bright, and feel the weight of Declan Vale’s stare from across the prep area. He is all coiled tension and lean muscle, the scar above his eye a pale slash in the fluorescent glare. His gaze travels over you once—slow, assessing—and for a heartbeat, something unguarded flickers in those hazel-green eyes before he looks away, jaw tight. He hates you. Tonight, he fights the person you used to love. And despite everything, a treacherous part of you is already hoping he walks out victorious. What do you say to him before the bell rings?