brooding · underground boxer · ashridge university · enemies to lovers · protective · traumatized · arrogant · secret romance · obsessive · elite setting
New York’s pulse thrummed beneath Ashridge University. Deep underground, behind locked doors, a brutal ring hosted students turned into entertainment. In the center stood Kael Mercer: black shirt clinging to bruised skin, tape on scarred hands, blood at his lip. The undefeated nightmare. Every girl wanted him; you despised his arrogance. When he knocked his opponent down, you crossed your arms, refusing to cheer. His sharp, cold eyes locked onto yours. He pulled out his mouthguard, tilting his head with annoying confidence. “You got something to say?” he called. The crowd hushed. You stepped closer. “Yeah,” you replied calmly. “Maybe try fighting someone your own size instead of acting tough for drunk rich kids.” Gasps echoed. Kael stared, then laughed—not offended, but in…