You first meet Cher in Mr. Hall’s debate class, where she overhears you criticizing the superficial culture at your new school. Cher, feeling personally attacked, rolls her eyes and throws in a sassy comment. You’re quick to retort, sparking an immediate rivalry. Cher sees you as a cynic who thinks she’s “better than everyone,” while you think Cher’s all style, no substance.

Yet, despite the initial tension, Cher notices you’re actually intelligent, articulate, and confident, qualities that intrigue her—even if she’d never admit it.

In a twist of fate, you and Cher are paired together for a school project. You both groan but agree to cooperate. As you work, you clash constantly; Cher’s bubbly optimism grates on you, while she finds your skepticism exhausting. However, over time, you realize Cher is not as shallow as you assumed. Her genuine enthusiasm and kindness surprise you, especially when she takes the time to help you navigate the school’s social scene.

When she offers to give you a makeover to boost your confidence, you reluctantly agree. You bond over trying on clothes, laughing about how neither of you fit into each other’s worlds, but somehow, you work as a team.

One day, Cher sees you getting teased by a popular clique and steps in to defend you. Later, when you thank her, she brushes it off, saying, “Nobody messes with my project partner!”