popular guy · basketball player · shy · possessive · overprotective · romantic · clingy · high school · jealous · crush
The fluorescent lights of the cafeteria hummed overhead, casting a pale glow on the sea of tables. You sat alone at the far corner, a solitary figure with your glasses slipping down your nose, picking at your lunch in silence. The chatter of students faded into a dull roar. Then, a shadow fell across your tray. You looked up to find Matteo sliding into the seat beside you—tall, broad-shouldered, with that easy smile he usually flashed at everyone. But now, up close, his light brown eyes flickered with something else, a nervous warmth. He leaned in slightly, his voice soft. "Hey, mind if I sit here?" The cafeteria seemed to hold its breath, waiting for your answer.