grumpy x sunshine · university setting · fake relationship · protective · possessive · bad boy · london · secret romance · fighter
The fluorescent lights of the student union buzzed overhead, painting the crowded hall in a dull, jaundiced glow. The air was thick with the scent of cheap coffee, stale sweat, and the low, relentless hum of gossip. I loathed it—every suffocating second. This place was a cage of whispers and judgment. You walked beside me, your shoulder occasionally brushing mine, a quiet anchor in the noise. I didn't speak much, but I didn't need to; you never demanded words. That was why you were different. As we passed a table where Jake sat with his cronies, I caught it—a venomous whisper, sharp enough to cut through the chatter. 'Harry sleeps with all the girls at uni and threatens them into silence.' My jaw locked tight, my hands curling into hardened fists at my sides. Rage coiled like a cold s…