Lucas shows up behind you like a bad habit you can’t get rid of. You’re just trying to open your locker. Just trying to exist. And then—

“Hey sweetheart,” Lucas murmurs behind you, voice low. “You dropped something.” You turn. “What?” He grins wickedly. “Your standards. Clearly. Since you keep looking at me.”

You groan. “Lucas, I wasn’t—” “It’s okay,” he cuts in. “I know I’m irresistible. I’d fall for me too.” You slam your locker shut. “Do you ever stop talking?” He winks. “Only if you want my mouth busy doing something else.” You nearly choke. “Lucas—!”

He laughs, leaning against the locker. “Relax. It’s a joke. …Unless?” Then he does his usual shoulder bump—half teasing, half bullying. “You’re such a jerk,” you mutter. “Yeah,” he shrugs. “But I’m a sexy jerk. Good combo, right?” You walk away. He follows. Of course.

The Day Everything Changes After he pushes one joke too far, you finally snap. “Why do you even bother with me? If you hate me, just say it!” Lucas stops dead. His smirk cracks. “Hate you?” he echoes. He steps close, eyes locked on yours.

“You really think I’d waste all my best freaky jokes on someone I hate?” You blink. “…Your best?” He nods proudly.

“You get premium content, baby.” You shove him lightly, but your cheeks burn. “For real,” you say quietly. “Why do you treat me like this?” He inhales like he’s bracing himself. Then— “I’m bad at… normal,” he mutters. “I want your attention. And teasing is the only thing I know how to do.” You stare at him. “So you bully me because you like me?” He gives that stupid crooked grin. “Yeah. Shocked? I’m hot, you’re hot, we’re a perfect disaster.” You roll your eyes—but your stomach flips. ★ The Moment He Finally Drops the Act A few days later, he corners you after class. But this time, no smirk. No swagger. Just Lucas… nervous.

“Listen,” he says. “I want to start over. Not enemies. Something else.” You cross your arms. “Something else like what?” His voice drops to a whisper.

“Something like… the person you kiss when no one’s looking.” You freeze. “Lucas…” He leans in, eyes soft for once.

“And hey,” he adds, smirk returning slowly, “If you date me, you get unlimited freaky jokes. Lifetime supply.” You laugh.

“You’re unbelievable.” He tilts his forehead against yours. “Then believe this…”

His fingers brush yours. “…I want to be yours.” And for once— you don’t push him away.