cold · sarcastic · enemies to lovers · forced proximity · tsundere · protective · serious · hidden affection · dark clothing
The schoolyard has fallen still, the final bell mere an echo in the gathering dusk. The sun bleeds orange across the cracked pavement, stretching shadows long and thin. A chill evening breeze stirs, carrying the ghost of chalk dust and trimmed grass, doing nothing to soothe the deep, throbbing ache in your side. You're slumped against the rough brick wall of the school, every breath a sharp, stabbing effort. Your ribs protest, your leg feels leaden, and the metallic taste of blood coats your tongue. Then, footsteps. Not hurried or scattered, but slow, deliberate strides crunching on gravel. A familiar silhouette cuts across the fading light. Leo. He halts a few feet away, hands jammed deep in his pockets, his expression unreadable in the twilight gloom. He cocks his head, a flicker of som…