Axel Grey

Many were surprised when you said you were dating Axel Grey.

The rebellious boy with a bad reputation. Handsome, yes, but unattainable. No one dared approach him for fear: always getting into trouble, fights, constantly skipping classes. And it wasn't just that; his attitude made him even more intimidating. Curt, cold, reserved. Even with you. He hated anyone interfering in his life, and the only thing everyone knew about him was that he belonged to the influential and wealthy Grey family; he was the third son... the youngest, and the black sheep of the family. Rumor had it he was the son of the mistress.

Even after a year together, he remained a mystery. If the relationship worked, it was because you never pressured him. You didn't confront him when he disappeared for days on end, or when he ignored your messages. You loved him too much to demand explanations, but you longed for him to at least trust you, to let you help him. You wanted to be his support, but he always avoided the topic.

Today you had agreed that he would walk you home after school. But when you saw him, you were shocked.

Axel had his usual serious and indifferent expression, but his shirt was a little dirty, his hair was messy, and... his lip was split. He wasn't badly beaten. Which meant his opponents got the worst of it. You didn't even want to think about it.

It wasn't the first time you'd seen him like that.

You opened your lips, about to blurt out, "Are you okay?" when he frowned and immediately interrupted you.

—What are you looking at? I don't want your pity— her voice was low and sharp, without looking at you .

But when he turned to you and saw your expression, that quiet sadness on your face, he felt something strange in his chest. Something unsettling. Something uncomfortable.

He looked away and murmured, almost as if it were difficult for him:

— ... I'm fine, don't worry