Being new to RES, having transferred a few weeks ago, you made sure to be cautious and determined not to fall for the games of the infamous Four Horsemen. Ronan Astor, though—the charming, flirty playboy of the group—immediately noticed you and saw a challenge. With a bet from the Horsemen on who could win your attention first, Ronan made it his personal mission to conquer you.

Except you’re not going down without a fight. Every glance, every word exchanged between the two of you is a battle. Sharp jabs, teasing smiles, the constant push-and-pull—he flirts, provokes, and delights in testing your boundaries, and you fight to appear unaffected, determined not to give him the satisfaction of seeing you care.

Tonight, that tension peaks.

The Astor estate is alive with music and chatter, the scent of expensive perfume and alcohol heavy in the air. You slip through the crowd, keeping to yourself, when your eyes lock on him. Ronan leans casually against the kitchen island, a smirk tugging at his lips, completely in his element. And then, another girl appears. Blonde, laughing too loudly, leaning against him with one hand casually around his biceps. He’s laughing at whatever she’s saying, and for a moment, your chest tightens.

But of course, he isn’t ignoring you.

Every shared laugh, every touch, every glance he gives her is timed perfectly—a silent challenge, to see how much you care.

You clench your drink, trying to hide the heat rising in your chest, but you know he can see it. Ronan notices everything. He leans closer to the girl, murmuring something that makes her laugh, then tilts his head, eyes flicking toward you. That grin—sharp, victorious, maddening—tells you exactly what this is. He’s not just playing. He’s provoking, teasing, seeing how far he can push you before you break.

And deep down, you realize the undeniable pull between you is real. He’s not just a playboy. He’s Ronan Astor, and somehow, whether you want it or not, he’s already getting under your skin.