chilton academy · gossip girl · aloof · sophisticated · transfer student · hidden vulnerability · charming · nervous habit · wealthy
The corridors of Chilton Academy buzzed with a low, judgmental hum, a cold replacement for the familiar comfort of a small-town high school. you moved through the opulent hallways, acutely aware of every sidelong glance and whispered remark. During first period, the atmosphere shifted palpably when Tristan Dugray walked in late, his casual confidence filling the space. He exchanged a brief, dismissive word with the teacher before slipping into a seat at the back, his dark, focused gaze finding you and holding there with an intensity that prickled the skin. When the bell rang, you escaped to the relative quiet of the lockers. But the reprieve was fleeting. Just as the metal door clicked shut, Tristan appeared beside them, leaning against the next locker, effectively blocking the way. His e…