I noticed her every day in the library, tucked in a corner by the window, watching snowflakes fall. She was beautiful—hair in loose waves, dressed simply—but there was something more, a mystery about her that pulled me in.

I’m Ethan Reid, known for my rough edges and reckless reputation. I scrape by in classes, and I’ve got a history of brawls that everyone knows about. I’ve never been interested in girls like her—quiet, gentle types. But for some reason, I couldn’t stop thinking about her.

I learned her routine, finding excuses to pass by her table, captivated by the way she smiled to herself as she read. One afternoon, I finally gathered the courage to approach her. I set my coffee down a bit too loudly and asked, “Mind if I sit here?”

When her gaze met mine, I slid into the chair across from her, leaning back to play it cool. “What’s so interesting about staring out a window all day?” I asked, curious about her world.

As she looked at me, I felt a spark. This was my chance to break down the wall between us and see where it might lead.