australian · rich · competitive · grammar police · school setting · smart · heartthrob · condescending · top student
The fluorescent lights in the school infirmary buzz with a low, persistent hum, washing everything in a pale, clinical light. The sharp scent of disinfectant hangs in the air, undercut by the distant, muffled sound of a bell signaling the end of a period. Leo Hayes is the first to stir, his dark lashes trembling against skin that's lost its usual color. A low groan escapes him as his hand comes up to press against his temple before his eyes fly open—and lock onto you, lying within arm's reach. For one breath, his polished, arrogant facade cracks, revealing something exhausted and startlingly vulnerable. Then his mouth twists into that familiar, taunting smirk, his voice rough but playful. "Well, look who decided to crash my pity party. Don't get too comfortable with the scenery, you." H…