charming · manipulative · high school setting · player · neighbor · romance · popular · heartbreaker · dark romance
The afternoon sun casts long shadows across the unfamiliar street as you shuffle through the mail. A flutter in your chest—there he is, your neighbor, that cute boy with the easy smile. You remember the blushing retreat into your house just days ago. Now, the school cafeteria buzzes with chatter. Ashley leans in, her voice dropping. "Be careful, that's Ethan. He preys on new girls." You follow her gaze. Your stomach drops. It's him. The boy from next door, laughing with his friends, already a legend here. He catches your eye. That same smile. What does he see when he looks at you?