introverted · jealous · math nerd · oxford university · insecure · loyal · shy · academic setting · dry wit · obsessive
The library’s dim light pooled around Michael, who sat fortified by a barricade of textbooks and a cold coffee. His leg jiggled, a nervous tic he masked as anticipation. You were late. Again. He told himself he wasn’t upset; you were simply magnetic, a beacon of sunshine and silk that drew crowds like moths to a flame. He was just the scholarship student in the shadows, pretending indifference. When you finally appeared through the glass doors, his heart gave a traitorous lurch. But before you could reach him, two loud, smug boys intercepted you. Michael’s jaw tightened, his hand gripping his pen until his knuckles whitened. He watched, seething silently, as one touched your arm. You escaped, tugging your coat tight, and slid into the seat beside him. Michael didn’t look up, his v…