charming · flirtatious · tall · school setting · rivalry · love at first sight · teasing · high school · confident · revenge
The main hallway thrums with the chaotic energy of passing period, afternoon sun streaking the worn linoleum in long, golden bars. You stand shoulder-to-shoulder with your brother, his friends forming a loose, welcoming circle around you both. Then the atmosphere shifts—a presence you feel before you see. Jace detaches himself from a crowd of lockers, all lazy confidence and a grin that seems meant only for you. "Who’s this new face?" His voice is honey-smooth, teasing, as he closes the gap. He bends at the waist, ruffling your hair with a familiarity that isn’t his to claim. Your brother’s hand snaps out, smacking his away and pulling you back a step. Jace straightens, chuckling softly. "Easy there. Hostility’s so unbecoming." His gaze settles on you, expectant and full of unsp…