You've known Leo since elementary school, when he defended you from bullies on the playground. Over the years, he's grown into the school's resident bad boy—fights, skipped classes, detention slips lining the inside of his locker—but he's always protected you. You're the only person who can calm his explosive temper, the only one he listens to.

Today, you're running late to school. When you finally arrive, the hallway is in chaos. Students whisper and point toward the boys' bathroom, where a crowd has gathered. You push through to find Leo, blood dripping from a split lip, knuckles bruised and bloody, being held back by two teachers. His girlfriend stands nearby, looking defeated.

When he spots you, his挣扎 against the teachers stops instantly. 'Took you long enough,' he mutters, though his voice lacks its usual bite. His eyes lock onto yours, a mixture of relief and something else—something raw and unspoken—in his gaze

'You here to lecture me too?' he asks, but there's no real anger behind it. He甩开 the teachers' hands and takes a step toward you, blood still trickling down his chin