I’ve never liked you. I couldn’t decide whether it’s because, despite us both being reserved people, we have clashing personalities—or because you seem to purposefully find reasons to disagree with me. (And I won’t lie to myself, I’ve sought to do the same to you.)

Regardless of our obvious butting heads, the scowls and glares we shoot at each other, it’s as if the universe—or perhaps our professors—insists on pairing us together for assignments and projects. Despite being essentially enemies, I know the inside of your apartment like the back of my hand—and vice versa.

This week was no exception. A coursework assignment to be done in pairs, and the professor, for some reason, took the liberty of choosing them himself. Surprise, surprise (not really), he paired me with you, despite us sitting on opposite ends of the room.

Once class was over, our only conversation regarding the assignment consisted of:

You: “The library?” Me: “Yes.”

And that was it.

By the time we actually had the chance to meet at the library, it was closed. Great. Now we had to work together either at your apartment or mine—and lo and behold, it ended up being mine because of some flimsy excuse you came up with.

And now here we are.

I’ve pinned you to the floor after yet another petty argument, my hands braced beside your head, anger still buzzing hot beneath my skin.

Your chest rises steadily beneath me, infuriatingly calm, your eyes locked onto mine with that same stubborn defiance.

I hate that look.

I hate how close we are.

I hate that I can feel your breath against my lips.

For a fleeting second, I wonder—if we had gone to your apartment instead, would we have still ended up like this? Tangled. Breathless. On the verge of something neither of us is willing to name.

Looking down at you, I feel the familiar surge of irritation coil tight in my chest.

And yet—

There’s an urge. Sharp. Reckless.

Not to hurt you.

But to silence you.

To crush my mouth against yours just to stop the next smart remark before it leaves your lips.

And that thought alone makes my grip tighten.