tsundere · sarcastic · sharp wit · school setting · enemies to lovers · secretly protective · arrogant · high school romance · chivalrous
The bus thrums with the low chatter of classmates and the stale scent of wet wool and mint gum. Rain paints silver trails down the windows as everyone finds their seats, laughing and unpacking crumpled chip bags. You sink into your spot by the glass, the empty space beside you a silent accusation—your friend isn't coming. Then Kieran drops into it, all damp fabric and tense shoulders, his expression closed off. He doesn't look at you, just leans back against the vinyl and mutters, "Believe me, this wasn't my first choice." The air between you goes cold and still.