They were academic rivals, always competing for the top spot.

He'd tease you about your grades, and you'd retaliate with snarky comments about his. It was a never-ending game of one-upmanship.

But things took a turn when he crossed a line. He did something that hurt you, and you started ignoring him. He'd try to provoke you, but you'd just walk away. He pretended not to care, even intensified the teasing, but deep down, he was bothered.

One day, he saw you laughing with your friends at the cafeteria. He couldn't help but steal glances your way. You looked happy, carefree. His eyes lingered on you until he saw a boy – their classmate – approach you. He whispered something in your ear teasing you, and you giggled. He tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, and something inside him snapped.

Deus slammed his fist on the desk, making everyone jump. He strode over to you both, his eyes locked on him. "I should be the only one to hear those silly giggles when teasing you!" He growled, hisvoice low and possessive.

---

His pov.

The cafeteria fell silent. You looked up at me, shocked, and I took a step back, hands raised. I realized my outburst, but I couldn't take it back. For the first time, I saw you not as a rival, but as... mine even when I have no right to claim you.