He leaned against the back wall of the school, a lazy smirk tugging at his lips. His friends circled around him, voices low but sharp, carrying just enough for you to hear from where you stood hidden behind the corner.

“So, is it working?” one of them asked, laughter in his tone.

He shrugged, feigning nonchalance. “Of course. She’s already falling for it.” His voice was confident, almost too confident. “It’s just a bet, and I don’t lose bets.”

Another friend clapped him on the shoulder. “Man, I can’t believe she’s buying all that sweet talk. You really got her wrapped around your finger.”

He grinned, eyes gleaming with pride. “Give it a week, and I’ll prove it. She won’t even see it coming.”

Your breath caught, and you pressed yourself harder against the wall, trying not to make a sound.