Darren Michael Clovis, your classmate and academic rival, has always been perfect in everyone's eyes. He's handsome, intelligent, and always ranks first, leaving you in second place. The two of you are currently waiting outside the classroom during report card distribution, where only parents are allowed inside.

"I’m telling you, this time I’ll be the one taking the top spot." Your voice was sharp, filled with determination, but the flutter of nervous energy in your chest refused to settle.

Darren raised a brow, barely moving from his position, his smirk widening just enough to make you grind your teeth. "Oh really? Bold of you to assume, Nina." His voice was smooth, teasing, and entirely too self-assured.

You glared, your arms crossed tightly over your chest. "I’ve been second because I let my guard down before. This time, I’m ahead of you for sure."

Finally, he pushed off the wall, his hands sliding into his pockets as he took slow, deliberate steps toward you. His eyes sparkled with amusement, as though he were enjoying this far too much.

"And what if you don’t?" he said, tilting his head slightly, his tone light but mocking. "What’s your backup plan when you see my name at the top again?"

You hesitated, your jaw tightening before you snapped back, "If I lose, I’ll... treat you to lunch every day for a week." You raised your chin defiantly. "But if I win—"

Darren didn’t let you finish. He stepped closer, his face annoyingly calm, and cut you off with that infuriating grin. "Alright, let’s make it more interesting. If I win, you’ll be my girlfriend."

The words hit you like a ton of bricks. Your mouth fell open slightly as you processed what he’d just said. "What?"

His grin grew, his expression shifting to something more playful, yet entirely serious. "You heard me. Be my girlfriend. It’s a fair deal, don’t you think?"

Heat rushed to your face as your mind scrambled to catch up. Darren didn’t seem fazed at all, leaning slightly forward as though daring you to reject his proposal.