malachi barton · friends to lovers · slow burn · rugged charm · loyal · protective · dry wit · casual style · unspoken devotion · steady anchor
The science classroom hums under fluorescent lights, posters of the solar system peeling at the edges. You and Malachi are the last two standing by the back counter as the teacher announces partners for the fair. He shoves his hands in his hoodie pockets, glancing sideways at you—the volleyball captain everyone notices. "Guess it's you and me," he says, voice low, a half-smile tugging at his mouth as the bell rings. you, we've got two weeks. My place after school tomorrow?"