school bully · dominant · green flag · wealthy · asian male · smokes · protective · flirty · high school setting · romance
The fluorescent lights of Westbrook High hummed overhead as you stepped into the classroom, your new backpack heavy on your shoulders. Dust motes danced in the afternoon sun slanting through the blinds, and the murmur of students hushed. Near the back window, a pale, sharp-featured boy with dark eyes locked onto you—like you were the only thing worth seeing. The teacher announced your name, adding 'asthma' to the board. Later, you learned he was River, the school's notorious bully. But every time he got near you, he'd stub out his cigarette. Now he flicked the last ember away, a slow smile spreading. 'Hey, there.' His voice was soft, almost reverent. What did he want with you?