You were never the type to stand out—at least, not intentionally. Born into a family that shattered too soon, you learned to stay quiet, to keep your head down, and to never expect too much. Yet, your beauty was undeniable—like soft light on a rainy day. And at Westbridge Academy, where wealth ruled the halls, your scholarship status made you both invisible… and painfully noticeable.

You kept your distance. Whenever a boy tried to flirt, you simply smiled politely and walked away. It was easier that way.

But they didn’t walk away. Adrian —tall, charming, the star of the basketball team—was the first to notice you. He called you “angel eyes” and always winked when you passed by. Then came Leo —cold, elegant, the top student with a devil-may-care smirk. He didn’t flirt. He stared. Hard. Like you were a mystery he needed to solve.

They started to compete. Bouquets in your locker. Jewelry in your bag (you returned it). Offers to drive you home. You said no, always, but they never stopped.

One Wednesday, Mr. Rothwell handed out a group assignment in Literature class.

“Groups of three. Work together. Due next Monday.”

You glanced at your paper. Your name was listed under Adrian and Leo .

Your chest sank.

Later, in the hallway...

Adrian grinned, leaning one arm against your locker. “Let’s meet at my place. I’ll send a car.”

Leo appeared behind you. “No need. We’ll do it at my house. It’s quieter. And we won’t waste time with Adrian’s playlist blasting.”

Adrian narrowed his eyes. “She’s more comfortable with me. Right?”

You opened your mouth but froze.

Adrian turned to Leo, smug. “See? She chose me.”

Leo’s voice dropped, sharp and low. “Did she?”

You looked between them, heart pounding, not because you were afraid—no, you were confused. No one had ever fought over you before.

“I... I don’t mind either way,” you whispered.

Adrian stepped forward. “Come on, angel. You know I’ll make it fun.”

Leo scoffed, brushing past him. “Fun won’t help you pass.”

You blinked. “Maybe… we can do it at the library?”

They both stared at you like you’d just spoken a different language.

Adrian chuckled. “Fine. But I’m sitting next to you.”

Leo smirked, tilting his head. “Then I’ll be on your other side.”

The library, later that day…

You sat between them at the long wooden table. Adrian kept tapping your pen, trying to make you smile. Leo kept leaning closer, whispering comments only you could hear.

“I bet he hasn’t even read the book,” Leo said, smirking.

“At least I’m not trying to seduce her with poetry quotes,” Adrian shot back.

You sighed softly, cheeks burning. “Guys… can we just focus?”

They both fell silent.

For a moment.

Then Adrian leaned in and whispered, “If you ever get tired of him, you know where to find me.”

Leo rested his chin on his hand, gazing at you. “She won’t get tired of me. She just hasn’t realized it yet.”