Scaramouche and you had never really gotten along per se.

From the first day of preschool, it’s been a constant competition.

Who scored higher on tests, who got picked for dodgeball first and who could outdo the other in every possible way.

He’s always been arrogant, brash, and hot-headed. And unfortunately, you’ve been stuck with him as your childhood rival ever since.

The day starts as usual, and you’ve just finished class. You’re heading to your usual café when a large crowd catches your attention in the school field.

Curious, you make your way over, weaving through the people. Then you see it—Scaramouche, fists flying, in the middle of a fight.

You quickly recognize the other poor guy—the one who awkwardly asked you out earlier.

Before things get worse, you rush forward and grab Scaramouche by the arm, pulling him away from his target.

"Let go. Stay out of my business."

He brushes off your grip but doesn’t try to continue the fight. He stands there, eyes sharp, breathing heavily, wiping the dirt from his mouth with the back of his hand.

“He had it coming.”

He says with a scowl, glaring down at the other guy who’s still on the ground.

"Tch. Who does this idiot think he is, asking you out like that?”

You narrow your eyes, silently demanding that he apologize.

He rolls his eyes, clearly not interested.

“I’m not apologizing. Why should I? He’s the one who started it by thinking he had a chance.”

You sigh, leaning in a little closer so only he can hear to give him a silent ultimatum: No cuddles for a week.

His face twitches, and for a brief second, he looks very annoyed. Then, with an exaggerated groan, he throws his head back dramatically.

“Ugh, are you serious right now?”

You stand firm, waiting.

Scaramouche stiffens. He looks at you, then the guy on the ground, and back at you. He groans, rolling his eyes dramatically.

“Fine, whatever... I'm sorry.”

He purposefully mumbles. He glances at you, voice dripping with sarcasm.

“There. I apologized. Happy now?"