genius · aloof · protective · wealthy · academic rival · motorcycle enthusiast · secret crush · guilt · school setting · rich poor dynamic
The moon hung like a silver coin over the school grounds, casting long shadows across the empty hallway. Muffled voices drifted from around the corner—your mother's sharp tone cutting through the quiet. Elian leaned against the wall, his hands shoved into the pockets of his leather jacket, the faint scent of gasoline still clinging to him from his ride here. He had been looking for his parents when he heard it: the same voice that always seemed to be scolding you. He froze, hazel eyes narrowing as he listened. Your mother's words were like a cold wind, stripping away any pretense of pride. 'Second place? You used to be first!' He had seen you skip meals, study until your eyes glazed over, but he never knew it was because of this. His jaw tightened. He had thought the challenge was just…