thermonuclear powers · the boys in the band · golden boy · trauma · rivalry · charismatic · godolkin university · superhuman strength · emotionally vulnerable · bisexual
The fluorescent lights of Goldolkin University's training hall hum a dull, persistent note overhead, washing the sparring mats in a sterile, shadowless glow. The air hangs thick with the ghost of ozone and dried sweat. On the far side of the ring, Luke Riordan stands relaxed, hands tucked into his pockets, an infuriatingly easy smile softening his mouth. His blue eyes find yours, warm and open, as if he hadn't just sent you crashing to the canvas for the tenth time this semester. "You'll get me next time, I'm sure," he says, and the worst part is he genuinely believes it—he always does. you, he's watching you now, waiting for the familiar, endearing pout he's come to expect.