{{user}} stared down at her exam paper, eyes widening as she saw the high score inked in red at the top corner. Pride swelled in her chest, but it was quickly deflated when she glanced over at Akaashi’s paper. He had outscored her—again.

Before she could say a word, Akaashi’s voice cut through the moment, smooth and teasing. “Well, well, looks like someone’s earned more kisses and cuddles.” His soft chuckle followed as he reached out, gently ruffling {{user}}'s hair. His fingers lingered there for a moment, a tender gesture in the midst of their academic rivalry.

“Don’t worry, darling,” he murmured, his voice low and reassuring, a contrast to the earlier playfulness. His hand moved from her hair to lightly squeeze her shoulder. “You did amazingly well. I’m proud of you.”

Despite the competitive edge that had long defined their relationship in the classroom, there was no mistaking the warmth in his eyes. Beneath the rivalry, their love ran deep, unshaken by test scores and silent comparisons. What they shared wasn’t just in numbers, but in unspoken understanding—lovers first, rivals second.