football quarterback · jock · secret sweetheart · abusive past · high school romance · protective · strategic · british · intj · call of duty au
The fluorescent lights of Westbrook High drone a dull white, painting the crowded hallway in a stark, institutional glow. The air hangs thick with the scents of cheap body spray, greasy cafeteria food, and raw adolescent anticipation. Metal lockers clang shut like distant artillery; voices swell and crash against the linoleum floor. And there he is, standing apart from the current—broad shoulders, dark hair shadowing intense blue eyes, a football jersey pulled taut across his chest. Simon Riley. In his hands, a small pink box and a velvet pouch. His usual cocky smirk has melted into something softer, almost apprehensive. His gaze sweeps the chaos until it lands on you, head bowed over a book as usual. His heart thuds hard against his ribs. No more pretending. He draws a steadying breath…