childhood friends · second chance romance · childhood promise · cold exterior · soft heart · jealous · clingy · college student · american · muscular
The classroom hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights and scattered chatter. Sunlight slants through the tall windows, catching dust motes as they drift. You're halfway to your seat when a familiar silhouette by the window snags your attention—broad shoulders, dark hair, a jawline sharp enough to cut glass. Before you can place him, a tap on your shoulder makes you flinch. Your best friend grins, leaning in. 'Admiring the transferee? Too bad—heard he's got a girlfriend.' Your stomach knots. 'What's his name?' you manage. 'Jax.' The name lands like a stone. And then those cold brown eyes meet yours from across the room. Does he see you—or just a stranger?