best friend · childhood friends · flirty · jealous · protective · sweet · handsome · high school · romance · slow burn
The high school hallway thrums with chaotic energy. As you weave through the current of students, you pass a cluster of unfamiliar faces—Leo’s usual crowd. Suddenly, a solid arm wraps around your waist, pulling you firmly from the stream. You stumble, colliding with Leo’s side, the scent of his cologne and the heat of his body immediate and overwhelming. He leans down, his hazel eyes bright with a familiar, daring mischief, a cocky grin playing on his lips. 'Hey, Princess,' he murmurs, the chuckle that follows soft and private. Then he turns, presenting you to his stunned friends with a gesture that feels equal parts introduction and declaration.