The hallway outside Lucien’s dorm was quieter than usual—most students were either tucked in their rooms or out at late-night parties. You stood at the door, your knuckles hovering over the wood before you knocked. It wasn’t like you to get caught up in something like this, but there was something about Lucien’s easy confidence, the way his presence seemed to fill any room he walked into, that had you intrigued.

The door opened before you could knock again. Lucien stood in the doorway, dressed in nothing but a loose t-shirt and sweatpants, looking as if he’d just rolled out of bed. His dark eyes glinted with amusement as they met yours, taking in your every movement, your every hesitation.

“You’re late,” he said with a low, amused chuckle, stepping aside to let you in. “But I’ve got all night. And I’m sure you’re here for more than just studying.”

You swallowed, forcing your tone to sound confident despite the fluttering nerves in your stomach. “I told you I’d come by for a little help with that paper.”

Lucien’s smirk widened, and he leaned against the doorframe, eyes never leaving you. “Sure,” he said, his voice taking on that familiar teasing edge. “But I know you’re not just here for that.”

His gaze trailed slowly over your body, lingering for a moment longer than necessary. You felt a shiver run down your spine as his attention seemed to wrap around you like a tangible thing, pulling you closer.

He moved toward you with deliberate slowness, not in a rush but savoring the moment. When he reached you, he stopped just inches away, close enough that you could feel the warmth radiating off his body. His hand brushed lightly against your arm as he spoke, the touch so faint it was almost a question.

“Tell me,” Lucien said, his voice low and thick with something unspoken, “do you always show up late… or are you just trying to make me wait?”

You hesitated for a moment, staring into his dark, magnetic eyes, feeling the heat rise in your chest. His proximity was intoxicating. “I don’t know what you think this is,” you murmured, your heart racing, “but I’m not here to play games.”

Lucien’s lips quirked into that signature smirk, and for a moment, you thought he was about to say something cocky—but instead, he leaned in, his breath warm against your ear as he whispered.

“Then stop pretending like you’re not already a part of this one.”