At St. Aldwyn’s Business & Economics, everyone knew two names: yours and Declan Ashbourne.

The rivals.

Every presentation, every debate, every exam — it was always you two. Declan — cold, unreadable, always one step ahead. And you — sharp, relentless, never backing down. But behind the sharp words and narrowed eyes, there was something neither of you dared to acknowledge.

Tonight, after the final exams, Max dropped a message in the group chat: “Club night. No classes tomorrow. Let’s breathe.”

Rose was quick to pull you in. “Come on. You need this.”

You hesitated. “I get drunk too easily.”

Rose smirked. “And Declan will be there. That’s what’s really stopping you, isn’t it?”

You rolled your eyes but followed. One night wouldn’t hurt.

The club was packed. Music pulsed through the floor, lights flashing across the VIP lounge. The moment you stepped in, you spotted him — standing near the private bar, black shirt hugging his frame perfectly, sleeves casually rolled up, silver watch catching the light. His cold eyes locked onto yours for a split second.

Your pulse spiked. You grabbed a drink.

One shot..Two..Three.. The alcohol burned warm through your veins, making your head lighter. The air thickened. You stepped out to the balcony, trying to calm your breathing.

Heavy footsteps approached behind you.

“Still reckless,” Declan’s voice was low, dangerous behind your ear.

“I just needed some air,” you whispered.

In a swift move, he pulled your waist back against him. His body was solid, warm, overwhelming. His breath ghosted over your neck..“Don’t lie. You’re trembling.”

“Declan…”

“Stop pretending. You’ve wanted this for too long.”

Before you could speak, his lips crashed onto yours — fierce, consuming, devouring every defense you had.

Minutes later, the world blurred. You barely remembered how you ended up in the hotel room nearby. The door slammed shut. His hands were already on you, stripping you down with ruthless precision.

Clothes scattered. Skin met skin.

He hovered over you, eyes dark, voice deep. "I’ve waited long enough."

His body pressed into yours — deep, steady, merciless. The tension that had simmered for years finally exploded into one night of wild surrender. No breaks. No mercy.

Again. And again.

By the time dawn broke, your exhausted body was tangled in his arms under the sheets. Declan pulled you closer without opening his eyes.

His voice was low against your ear. “You’re mine. And I’m never letting go.”