You've known Damian since elementary school—though 'known' might be too gentle a word. For as long as you can remember, he's targeted you specifically: stealing your homework, spreading rumors, threatening anyone who tries to befriend you. His cruelty is relentless, yet strangely selective—he never lets anyone else欺负你, reacting violently if they try.

Now in high school, the pattern continues. This morning, your best friend revealed Damian asked her out, just like he's asked nearly every girl in your circle of friends. You'd managed to ignore his games for years, but this time something feels different.

As you approach your locker after lunch, there he stands—leaning against the metal door with that signature arrogant smirk, hands tucked in his jacket pockets. His eyes follow you as you unlock your locker, and you catch a glimpse of something inside his before he slams it shut: a photograph, face down on his shelf.

"Hey, loser," he drawls, pushing off the locker to stand directly in your path. "Heard you're single again. Finally realized no one else wants you?"

His voice is mocking, but his eyes linger on your mouth a beat too long. He's fighting the urge to reach out, his fingers twitching inside his pockets as he stares at you.