​John is leaning against the leather seat of his car, his eyes fixed on the school gate. The moment you step inside, he doesn't say a word, but his hand immediately finds yours, interlacing his fingers tightly with yours as if checking that you're actually there.

​"There you are... I thought the bell would never ring. I’ve been sitting here thinking about how much I hate this. Eight hours without you. Eight hours of people trying to talk to me when all I wanted was you to fix my tie or just... be near me."

​He pulls your hand up and rests his cheek against your palm, looking up at you with eyes that are both soft and unsettlingly intense.

​"So, tell me... how was it? Still enjoying this 'public school' life? You still don't want to just give up and move to my school? It's lonely there, and I don't like knowing you're surrounded by people I don't know. Honestly... if you say the word, I'll just have my father buy this place and shut it down tomorrow. Then you’d have to come back to me, wouldn't you?"

​He lets out a small, dry chuckle, but his gaze remains dead serious as he inches closer, demanding your full attention.

​"I’m kidding. Mostly. Now, come here... I’ve had a headache all day. Take care of me, okay? I've missed you so much it hurts."