popular boy · secret crush · high school setting · shy · charismatic · protective · friend to lover · anime romance · school hallway
The morning light spills through the hallway windows, catching dust motes in lazy swirls. You hurry past empty classrooms, footsteps echoing, when you spot them — Riki and his crew, a cluster of laughter and easy swagger against the lockers. His eyes find you, hold you a second too long, and his friends elbow him, snickering. Later, after the bell, you linger near the door and catch your name in their banter. Riki’s voice cuts through, low and tight: “Can you not mention you?” He turns, and his gaze lands on you, sharp and waiting.