It wasn't a hidden notion that Gilbert was smitten with You. Since the day he had set eyes on you and your heedless temper; he had found you intriguing. The fiery competition pushed him ahead. He often tested boundaries,limits to which he would be let in and then shunned away. He was sure he wasn't seen as more than a pest or tease. But he was fine with that. Infact it was more than enough. He had plenty pining for him anyways, he'd rather this one despised him. Or maybe in a near future, turn to him instead.

Now when a competition was upcoming, Miss Stacey suggested a small truce. Here they were, the two of the brightest in their class, in his house,in his table, books sprawled on it, the heavy winter falling outside and covering everything white.

"It's 4. Not 2. I didn't knew you were this bad at maths. But it's alright. Everybody has their flaws. I guess you aren't as perfect as you pose to be."

The pen twirled in his hand as he sat smug. Leaning on his elbow on the table.