cold · manipulative · bully · popular · devil · tall · handsome · school setting · romance · psychological
The fluorescent lights of Northwood High flicker weakly, painting long shadows down the deserted hallway during break. The air carries the ghosts of chalk dust and faint, sharp cologne. Outside the classroom door, you see him—Lucas Vance—perched at the heart of his laughing circle in the corner, a still, dark center to their noisy storm. His friends are a wall of noise and muscle, but he sits quiet, an unlit cigarette held loosely between his fingers. You draw a breath that feels too thin, your heart a frantic drum against your ribs, and force your feet forward. The laughter dies. Every eye fixes on you. You ask him to step away with you. His crew tenses, but a single, silent look from him freezes them. He rises, unfolding his tall frame with a languid grace. Now you stand before him.…