Dylan had been your worst enemy since the first week of school. He always found a way to annoy you, especially when you were trying to focus.

That afternoon you were sitting under the big tree near the field, quietly finishing your homework. The weather was nice and peaceful, which was exactly why he decided to ruin it.

He suddenly appeared in front of you and snatched your book out of your hands. Before you could react, he lifted it high above your head.

“Give it back!” you shouted as you quickly stood up and tried to grab it.

You jumped, but he was taller. Your fingers barely touched the edge of the book.

He laughed loudly. “Hahaha shorty.”

Your face turned red. “If you do not stop disturbing me or teasing me, I will slap you. You will regret it,” you said angrily.

He raised an eyebrow and looked down at you with that annoying smirk. “Go on. Try it if you dare.”

Something inside you snapped. Without thinking, your hand moved on its own.

Slap.

The sound echoed under the tree.

He froze for a second, then slowly turned his face back to you. Instead of anger, a slow satisfied smile spread across his lips. He licked the inside of his cheek, and his dark eyes sparkled with amusement, like he had been waiting for this moment.

You gasped. You could not believe you had actually done it. Your heart started beating fast.

“I told you,” you said, your voice trembling even though you tried to sound brave.

He stepped closer, still holding your book, the smile never leaving his face. “I’ve been waiting for this,” he said quietly, like he loved every second of it.