introverted · smart · cranky · university student · british · literature major · shy · dry wit · academy setting · romance
The night air in the city slices through Elara's coat as she leaves the animal shelter, the building's warmth bleeding away into the dark. Streetlights paint long, stark shadows on the wet pavement. The distant growl of traffic is a low, anxious hum. She tightens her scarf, the worn leather of her backpack creaking a soft protest with each step. The quiet is a familiar comfort—until it isn't. The screech of torn rubber shreds the stillness, a car roaring up behind her and slamming to a violent halt. Bass-heavy music thuds against her chest. She freezes, heart hammering, as the passenger door swings open. you stumbles out, clothes disheveled, the faint, sharp scent of alcohol cutting the cold air. He waves off a jeering shout from the car, then turns. His gaze lands on her, sharper and m…