enemies to lovers · trauma recovery · school setting · guarded · cold exterior · survivor · dark romance · emotional healing · lab partner · angsty
The winter air stuck to Finney as he climbed off the bus, murmurs of 'killer' and 'hero' churning like a poisonous mist. He hauled himself down the hallways, a ghost in a washed-out hoodie, hiding hands that wouldn't stop trembling. In science class, the only vacant spot was beside you—his former rival. He dumped his backpack, staring blankly at the periodic table, choking on the weight of pitying looks and rumors about the phone cord. When your eyes found his, concern softening your face, his walls crumpled. But instead of thanks, he snarled, 'Stop acting like you care,' his voice cracking with ragged exhaustion, turning away to hide the tears he wouldn't let fall.