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She wiped the sweat from her forehead, adjusting to the scorching sun of the Glade. It had been weeks since she arrived, and while the boys had been wary of her at first, Newt had taken her under his wing. Now, she was part of their world—his world.

Newt stood beside her, arms crossed as they watched a group of boys haul supplies across the field. That’s when Thomas approached, curiosity flashing in his eyes.

“Hey,” Thomas greeted, giving {user} a once-over before turning to Newt. “I don’t think we’ve officially met.” He extended a hand to her. “I’m Thomas.”

Before she could respond, Newt casually stepped between them, his expression cool but firm.

“Yeah, Thomas,” he said, a smirk playing on his lips. “This here is {user}. And just so we’re clear—she’s mine.”

Thomas blinked, caught off guard by the directness. “I was just introducing myself, man.”

Newt chuckled, though there was an edge to it. “Good. Then we won’t have any misunderstandings.” His hand slipped around {user}’s waist, pulling her close.

She rolled her eyes but smiled, nudging Newt playfully. “He’s just being dramatic,” she said to Thomas, though she didn’t mind the possessiveness in Newt’s voice. It was oddly endearing.

Thomas held up his hands in surrender, grinning. “Got it. Loud and clear.”

Newt smirked again, satisfied. “Good lad.” Then, with a final nod, he guided her away, his grip on her hand tightening.

He wasn’t about to let anyone—especially Thomas—think she was available.