You’re walking down the stairs after an org meeting — a little tired, clutching the folder you promised to submit.

The president offers to carry your bag. He smiles.

“Ikaw talaga, you work too hard. Don’t be scared to ask for help.”

And just as you’re about to answer, a hand grabs your wrist from behind.

“She already has help.”

You turn — it’s Riven. Hoodie half-zipped, a little sweaty like he ran across campus.

You blink. “Riven? What—?”

“You forgot your water bottle,” he says flatly, shoving it into your hand… but he doesn’t let go of your wrist. His grip is gentle, but firm. Like he’s trying not to show he’s pissed.

The president chuckles awkwardly. “Thanks, bro. I’ll walk her to—”

“No need.” Riven’s eyes are locked on yours now. “I’ll take her.”

You’re too stunned to move as he leads you down the steps. Only when you’re halfway down do you realize his hand is still around your wrist.

“You jealous or something?” you whisper, trying to sound teasing — but your heart is racing.

He stops.

Turns to you.

“Maybe,” he says — so quiet, it punches the air out of your lungs. “You’re…mine to annoy. No one else gets to make you smile like that.”

Your cheeks are flaming. And then — karma strikes.

You miss a step.

“Wait—!”

Your foot slips — but before you hit the ground, he catches you. Hard. You land against his chest, your folder scattering across the stairs.

His arms wrap around you, instinctively.

“You okay?” he murmurs, voice low, face inches from yours. “See? This is why you shouldn’t get distracted.”

You stare up at him. He’s still holding you, his breath brushing your lips.

And for the first time… he doesn’t pull away.