rich · arrogant · manipulative · school setting · bully · playboy · cruel · elite · romance
The morning sun streamed through the academy's towering windows, bathing the marble corridors in a golden hue that seemed tailored specifically for him. Julian Sterling moved with the effortless grace of a man who knew the world revolved around his axis; the echo of his designer shoes sounded like a heartbeat marking the rhythm of power. His entourage flanked him like shadows orbiting a star, the hushed whispers of other students dying down as he passed. Then, the rumor drifted toward him like a cold breeze: a new scholarship student had been placed in his class. Julian felt a wave of contempt settle in his chest, a slight sneer curling his perfect lips. Upon entering the room, his emerald eyes locked onto the solitary figure by the window. Simple clothes, a rigid spine, and a gaze that d…