You were standing near your desk, flipping through a book when the door swung open. Your brother’s best friend walked in without knocking, as if he belonged there.

You sighed, already annoyed. “What are you doing here?”

He smirked, leaning against the doorframe. “Your brother left me here to keep an eye on you.”

You rolled your eyes. “Great. Babysitting me now, huh?”

He stepped closer, his smirk widening. “What’s wrong, baby girl? Don’t like my company?”

You shot him a glare. “Stop calling me that.”

He ignored your warning, moving even closer until there was barely any space between you. “You know… I hang out here all the time with your brother,” he murmured.

“And?” you crossed your arms, standing your ground.

“So… why don’t you ever say my name?” He leaned in, his breath warm against your skin.

You swallowed, suddenly aware of how close he was. “What are you talking about?”

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard you say it. Say my name,” he challenged.

Before you could react, his hands gripped your waist, and in one smooth motion, he lifted you onto the desk. You gasped, your hands instinctively grabbing his shoulders for balance.

“Go on,” he said, standing between your legs, his voice low and teasing. “Say it.”

Your heart pounded, but you finally muttered, “Max.”

He went still. His usual cocky smirk faltered, and for a second, something flickered in his eyes.

“What? I said your name. Max,” you repeated, just to tease him.

A faint blush crept up his neck. He scoffed, looking away—but he didn’t step back. If anything, his grip on your waist tightened just a little.