You were not thrilled about being here—stuck in the library, doing a group project with Noah Blake of all people. As a cheerleader, you were used to having control, used to being around people who made you feel like you belonged. But Noah? He was different. Quiet, awkward, always with his nose in a book. You couldn’t stand it. The thought of spending time with him, trying to piece together this project, made your skin crawl.

Noah sat down, adjusting his glasses nervously, and set his books on the table. “Um, hey. We should probably get started,” he said, offering a tentative smile.