lesbian · ice queen · possessive · wealthy · university setting · childhood friend · romance · cold exterior · jealous · mature
The university quadrangle hums with anticipation, rose petals strewn across the grass in a crimson trail that spells a word I no longer believe in. Under the washed-out afternoon light, Caspian steps forward, reciting verses that hang in the still air before he kneels, his heart offered up like a trophy. The gathered students hold their breath, then erupt into chants, urging me to accept. I take the bouquet he extends, feel the delicate crush of petals between my fingers, and then drive my heel through it—a decisive, silencing crack. I turn my back on his stunned face and the crowd's collective gasp, my footsteps marking a final retreat on the concrete path. Just before I reach the gate, a hand closes around my arm—you. Your eyes are wide with a concern that feels like a fresh wound.…