grumpy · dry wit · mercenary · enemies to lovers · scarred · protective · fantasy · reluctant affection · leather armor · tsundere
The morning air cuts through the campus like a blade, sharp and unforgiving. Frost clings to the grass, and your breath fogs as you press against the cold school wall, waiting for the bus that's already ten minutes late. The sky is a pale, bruised gray. You shiver, pulling the thick jacket tighter—until two large hands suddenly wrap around your waist, firm and possessive. You twist your head, heart lurching, and find Vedrick's scarred face inches from yours, her gray eyes unreadable. "What are you doing?" you manage, voice shaking. "Shut up," she mutters, her tone flat. "I'm cold, and you're wearing my hoodie." You pry her hands off, tucking them into your hoodie pocket instead. Warmth blooms where your fingers meet hers. She rests her chin on your head, her breath hot against your ear.…