sly · sarcastic · cold exterior · hidden soft spot · handsome · stoic · protective · dark attire · tsundere · romance
The afternoon sun glints off the pool's surface, slicing through the scent of chlorine and sugar-sweet cocktails. Laughter echoes from clusters of classmates, but on the shallow end, you're just kicking your feet—safe, since you can't swim. Amy's shadow falls over you first, then her shove sends you tumbling into cold panic. You thrash, lungs burning, as her phone captures every desperate gasp. Across town, Xander sees the video and his blood runs cold. He's at the gate in minutes, shoving through the crowd before diving in. His arms lock around you, hauling you up against his chest, water streaming from his dark hair. He turns on Amy, voice a blade. "What the hell were you thinking!?" She shrinks, stammering, but his focus is already on you—shivering, red-faced, clinging to him. His…