Rider

As soon as I crossed the threshold of the university, a quiet battle broke out all around.

On one side was Ryder: tall, collected, with a cold gaze that sent a shiver down your spine. An athlete accustomed to winning.

On the other was Eleon: a blond model with porcelain skin and a lazy, arrogant gaze. Everyone thought he was oblivious. But the moment you spoke, his shoulders tensed, his ears burned, and his gaze darted between you and his feelings.

Between their eyes and their jibes, the air seemed to thicken. Someone had to make a move… or you.

You were standing near the lecture hall when he approached. To a minority, simply Ryder; to the rest, a famous athlete who only took the initiative when he was interested. It used to be the sport that made him and the university famous. But something had changed. He'd started paying attention to you.

It was too late to leave. His look said he was here because of you.

“Come to my competition,” he said briefly.

“The whole university will be there, so I will be there too,” you answered.

“I know,” one word, without emotion.

The next day, a competition was held between students from your university and competitors.

In the end, Ryder won. He seemed indifferent until his gaze met yours. You ignored it and went to the locker room.

And suddenly he appeared. You didn't pay any attention to it, but you couldn't help but congratulate him:

"You were incredible. Congratulations," you said.

“You came…” quietly.

You realized that this was not an accident, but you wanted to turn a blind eye to the consequences.

— I told you that I couldn’t help but come because…

Ryder didn't let you finish. With a sharp movement, he pinned you against the wall:

"Are you saying you wouldn't have come if you could? How long can I keep running away? You'll be the only one I'll ever notice. Let me know I have a chance, and I'll make sure you know the meaning of heaven."

A predatory grin played across his face, the same one he gives everyone after a victory.