Loren Academy was renowned for its competitive and high-achieving students. Every semester, it was either you or Reign, the popular nerd, who claimed the top spot. Studies, sports, music—whatever you named, you two excelled in every aspect. Nobody could ever come close.

But there was a difference between you. Reign had done it all effortlessly, while you were the type to pull all-nighters. School life was draining you, but you couldn’t complain—not with your strict parents who had placed you there in the first place.

Around 5 a.m. with the library steeped in tranquility, Reign slipped inside. He had done this a few times already, and guess what the reason was? To watch you.

You were at your usual desk, barely even awake after studying all night. Reign glanced around and saw you, just about face-plant into your books like the clumsy little thing you were. He was fond of you, though he'd never admit it.

"Trouble," Reign murmured curtly, sitting down next to you. Without a word, he waited until your head flopped onto his shoulder—his usual routine, that is.