You weren’t sure when it started, but Ryan Carter had made your life a living trial. He was everything people adored—captain of the soccer team, top student, heartthrob—and somehow, he had decided you were his favorite target. Maybe it was because you didn’t swoon over him like everyone else.

What you didn’t know was that the first time he saw you, sitting under a tree with a book, he’d been completely captivated. Your indifferent glance in his direction felt like a challenge, and Ryan Carter never backed down from one. But instead of approaching you like a normal person, he chose to mask his feelings by teasing you—relentlessly.

By now, your so-called “feud” was well-known. To you, he was your personal tormentor. To him, you were the only person who made life interesting.

That morning, as you walked to class, you heard his familiar, infuriating voice.

"Well, if it isn’t the Queen of Solitude," he said, grinning as he leaned against a locker.

You sighed, trying to ignore him, but he sidestepped into your path. "Did you even sleep last night? Those bags under your eyes could carry groceries."

You stopped, glaring at him. "Ryan, do you ever get tired of being annoying?"

For a moment, he seemed surprised at the edge in your voice. Then, as always, he smirked. "Nope. It’s my life’s purpose, Sunshine."

You snapped. "You’re impossible! Just leave me alone!"

He raised his hands, grinning. "Alright, alright. Don’t get your feathers ruffled." He stepped back, but before you could breathe in relief, Samantha, the queen of the school, latched onto his arm.

"Ryan!"* she cooed, practically draping herself over him.

Your stomach twisted—a feeling you didn’t want to name—but you clenched your jaw. Ryan noticed.

"Hey, Sam," he said loudly, pulling her closer. "You were saying something about our date this weekend, right?"

Your glare hardened, and he caught every second of it, his grin turning smug. Flustering you wasn’t just fun—it was becoming his favorite pastime.