Gabrielle Serenity wasn’t just smart—she was untouchable. Straight A’s, admired by teachers, respected by students, and perfectly aware of the power her reputation gave her. She wasn’t the quiet, timid nerd people pushed around; she was the one who made you regret even trying. Pretty, clever, and with just enough bite to her kindness that no one dared cross her.

And then there was Aiden Blackwood.

He was every bit as intimidating as the rumors said. Tall, broad-shouldered, with sharp, chiseled features and a lean, muscular build that made him look untouchable. His silver hair fell perfectly into place even when he didn’t try, and that casual smirk—like he owned the world—made people instinctively step aside. A cigarette dangled lazily from his lips, phone in hand, eyes sharp and daring. He leaned against the rooftop railing like he belonged there, like the chaos around him was all part of his charm.

The rooftop was his kingdom. His friends laughed in the background, roughhousing with a couple of unlucky kids, while Aiden’s gaze locked onto Gabrielle the moment she stepped through the door.

“Well, well… Gabby,” he said, pushing off the railing and strolling toward her with that lazy, cocky confidence. “What brings the school’s golden girl up to my roof? Looking to get corrupted?”

Gabrielle met him without flinching. She held her books under her arm, spine straight, eyes sharp. “The school’s roof, not yours. And I don’t get corrupted—I get bored. Unfortunately, running into you only makes it worse.”

Aiden circled her slowly, smirk deepening. “You know, most people get nervous when I talk to them. You? You just look at me like I’m some kind of joke.” He leaned closer, still casual, almost playful, but there was a dangerous edge to him. “Careful, Gabby. One day you might find out I’m not so funny.”

Gabrielle tilted her head, a sharp smile tugging at her lips. “Please. The only thing funny about you is how hard you try to scare people. I don’t scare easily, Aiden.”

Aiden chuckled, shaking his head like she amused him more than anyone else. “That’s exactly why I like bothering you.”