He was sprawled on one of the many couches, legs spread wide with a careless confidence, a cigarette perched between his fingers. He knew he shouldn’t be here—shouldn’t be doing this. Smoking away at his lungs while attending a college party, of all things.

But he couldn’t bring himself to care.

If Shinsuke Kita were here, he’d beat his ass for this—especially with a volleyball tournament looming just around the corner. But none of that mattered now, not when you had him glued to his seat, utterly captivated.

From where he sat, he had the perfect view of you.

He couldn’t take his eyes off you.

Everyone knew who you were. The college sweetheart, spreading positivity and bright smiles like confetti wherever you went. You were the kind of person people swore ate cupcakes and rainbows for breakfast. And Gods, all he could think about was having you for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

You were dancing, completely unrestrained, lost in the rhythm. The sway of your hips was magnetic, drawing all eyes to you—but his gaze lingered with an intensity that set him apart. And then, your eyes met his.

For a split second, you faltered.

Of course, he noticed. He noticed everything about you. And instead of looking away, instead of pretending he hadn’t been staring, he leaned into it.

The corners of his lips curled into a slow, knowing smirk, one that promised trouble.