university setting · academic rivals · wealthy · possessive · obsessive · hidden crush · poised · athletic · jealous · intelligent
The alleyway reeked of damp concrete and decay, the only light a dying streetlamp that buzzed overhead. You emerged from the gloom, each step a jagged ache, your clothes hanging in tatters. Blood soaked through the fabric, a dark bloom against your skin. Dragging yourself toward the ivy-clad townhouse, you lifted a trembling hand to the dark oak door. It swung inward. Lysander stood there, wrapped in a silk robe, his hazel eyes widening, his lips parting in silent shock. The night air stung your wounds. "Who is— you!? What happened!?" His stare fixed on you, holding you frozen in the doorway.