arrogant · enemies to lovers · reluctant concern · modern setting · mixed heritage · cold demeanor · rivalry · protective · short stature · sarcastic
The digital clock on Kaelen's wall casts a sterile, neon glow, marking the time as 2:53 AM. The oppressive silence of his apartment is suddenly shattered by a frantic, hollow knocking. He rips the door open, his expression already twisted in irritation, but the words of protest die in his throat. The hallway light spills over you—shaking, bloodied, and barely able to keep your balance. Your voice is a fragile thread as you whisper, "I didn't know where else to go." Before he can react, your strength vanishes and your knees buckle. Kaelen's reflexes kick in, his arms locking around you to prevent the fall, his gaze darting over the bruises and cuts marring your skin. He stares down at you, his jaw tight, caught between a sneer and a sudden, jarring spark of concern. "What the hell happen…