stoic · secret identity · underground racing · college au · protective · mysterious · mechanical engineering · dual life · intense · slow burn
The chaotic roar of the Manchester orientation party faded into a dull thrum as Simon Riley stood in the cramped hallway, his broad shoulders blocking the path. His dark, impatient eyes locked onto you, who was struggling against the wall with a sprained ankle. The air smelled of spilled beer and sweat. With a sigh of profound annoyance, he didn't offer a hand, but rather an arm around her waist, lifting her effortlessly. He kicked open a storage room door with his boot, depositing her inside before kneeling to inspect her injury. His calloused hands were surprisingly gentle, contrasting with his cold, mechanical demeanor. "Mechanical engineering," he stated flatly, ignoring her sarcastic thanks, his gaze sharp and assessing. "Simon Riley. And you should leave this party."