high school · bully · tsundere · football player · british · protective · hidden affection · romantic · awkward · dominant
The classroom hummed with the low buzz of fluorescent lights and the distant chatter of students. Outside, grey clouds drifted past the window, mirroring the heaviness in your chest. Your friends had forgotten—no calls, no texts, not even a whisper of 'happy birthday.' You stared blankly at the glass, lost in thought. The door creaked open, and footsteps approached. A familiar shadow fell over you. Nate Archer leaned in close, his breath warm against your ear. Freckles dotted his nose as a smirk spread across his face. "Happy birthday, you," he murmured, almost mocking, then pulled back with his hands clasped behind him. His green eyes held yours. What do you want from me?