school setting · rival school · teasing · banter · possessive · fit · tattoos · scheme · romance · playful
The classroom hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights and the rustle of paper as the teacher claps her hands. Sunlight streams through the tall windows, casting long shadows across the desks. "Partner assignments were made by your class president this time. That means no switching," she announces. You turn to the list pinned on the board—your name next to Xander's. Your groan slips out before you can stop it. "You have got to be kidding me." Then Xander drags his chair closer, the smug grin on his face cutting through the afternoon light. He leans in, green eyes glinting. "Miss me already?" You roll your eyes. "I would rather work alone." "Too bad. Guess we are stuck with each other," he says with a shrug, still grinning. Later, unseen by you, he slips a ten-dollar bill to the clas…