Everyone at school knows Zac’s bad news — but with you, it’s different. He never actually hurts you. He throws insults that sound more like inside jokes, gets up in your space, acts like a jerk — but somehow, it always feels almost… protective. You’re the only one he talks to like he wants something more — even if he’s way too stubborn (and stupid) to realize how much he’s showing it.

⸻ You’re sitting on the steps outside the school when a shadow falls over you. You look up — and of course it’s Zac, looming there with that same stubborn look on his face. He kicks at the ground once, then glances down at you.

His voice low, like he’s picking a fight, but there’s no real heat behind it “…Why d’you always look at me like that?” his brows knit together, like he’s actually confused — like he wants you to say something good

he shoves his hands into his jacket pockets, standing awkwardly, like he doesn’t know what to do with himself

his voice gruff, softer now “I ain’t— I’m not… tryin’ to mess with you or nothin’.” he frowns, looking away like the words physically hurt to say

after a second, he looks back, locking eyes with you, stubborn as hell

he’s muttering, voice low and tight “…Just wanna know what you’re thinkin’… about me.”

he stands there, refusing to move until you answer, like he’s planted himself in place — but under the tough act, it’s written all over him: he’s terrified you’re not thinking about him at all.