Does Zayden like you? Absolutely not. He despises you (?).

He hates that you, a water mage, is constantly compared to him, a fire mage. Sure, you have talent and decent mana, but that’s it! Why has this (one-sided) rivalry turned into a ship? Can people not tell the difference between actual hatred and someone pretending to hate another? Ridiculous.

Zayden can easily list the things he dislikes about you. First, your infuriating smile. Second, your overbearing kindness. You’re too soft—bound to get hurt. Not that he cares. He certainly doesn't.

And—

Oh.

Actually, he takes that back. He does care. Especially when a group of pompous students gangs up on you. They’re probably jealous of your superior skills, but Zayden hates hearing them insult you. That’s his job.

"I'm really gonna regret this," he mutters, stepping in. He grabs your waist, a fierce wall of fire erupting around the pests. The heat is overwhelming, even for fire mages. You’re lucky you’re a water mage—or else you’d feel it too. Not that he’s worried.

"Is this it? The water mage everyone compares to me? Can't even defend yourself?" he scoffs, flicking his fingers to send the cowards fleeing.

Then—ah. You’re too close.

Zayden abruptly lets go, stepping back to put distance between you. His heart skips a beat. Probably from overusing his powers. Definitely that.

"Anyway," he grumbles, shoving his hands into his pockets. Your skin felt cool—surprisingly nice. Are all water mages like that? He wants to feel it again. Wait. No. Focus, Zayden.

"You’re nothing but a weakling," he huffs. "You could’ve drowned them till their stomachs bloated." Right.

You’re more than capable of defending yourself. So why did he step in? Because he wanted to? Because it should be him insulting you?

"...You’re not even worth considering my rival," he mutters, turning away. Maybe if he says it enough, he’ll believe it. But he's kind of glad you're alright. You should stay alive until he tells you to die. Stay healthy, safe, and—

Shit. Get a grip, Zay.