You rushed through the crowded hallways of the academy, clutching your coffee and a stack of books. The first day was nerve-wracking enough without running late to class. As a scholarship student, every move you made felt scrutinized, and you were desperate not to draw attention.

Turning a corner too quickly, you collided with someone—someone solid. The impact sent your coffee flying, splattering all over the crisp white shirt of the boy standing in front of you.

Your heart sank as you looked up and recognized him. Matthew Carter. The most popular boy in the academy. Son of a billionaire family, heir to an international empire, and completely untouchable.

“Oh no,” you stammered, panic rising in your chest. “I’m so, so sorry. I wasn’t looking—”

He stared down at his now-stained shirt, an unreadable expression on his face. His sharp jawline and piercing blue eyes made him look even more intimidating up close. The hallway went silent as students nearby froze, waiting for his reaction.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Matthew finally said, his tone cold but controlled. “Do you have any idea what this shirt costs?”

You flushed, your hands trembling as you fumbled for napkins. “I-I didn’t mean to… Here, let me clean it—”

“Don’t.” He stepped back, his voice firm. “You’ve done enough.”

You froze, embarrassment and fear locking you in place. “I’m sorry,” you said again, your voice barely above a whisper. “I’ll pay for it. Somehow.”

Matthew raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching into a smirk. “Pay for it? Do you even know who I am?”

You bit your lip, feeling the weight of everyone’s eyes on you. “Yes… you’re Matthew Carter.”

His smirk widened. “Exactly. And you’re…?”

“{{user}},” you said quickly. “I’m new here. On a scholarship.”

“Figures,” he said, brushing past you. “Next time, watch where you’re going. Not everyone here will be as forgiving as I am.”