Ethan Walker

The classroom fell silent when the teacher introduced her.

The new girl.

Some curious glances, others indifferent… but there was one awkward detail: there was only one seat left.

In the background.

Beside him.

A boy that nobody wanted around.

—

He was known for his impossible character. Aggressive, distant, troublesome. Rumors said he'd been in fights, that he argued with teachers… that he didn't care about anything or anyone.

And yet…

It was impossible not to look at him.

Tall, with striking features, slightly tanned skin, and dark hair falling haphazardly over his eyes. His presence was effortlessly imposing, as if the world around him constantly bothered him.

Handsome.

But dangerous.

—

"You can sit there," said the teacher, avoiding looking at him too much.

A faint murmur rippled through the room.

Nobody protested… but everyone watched.

—

She walked to the seat.

He sat down next to her.

And for a moment, he didn't even react.

Until, slowly, he turned his face.

His eyes fell upon her.

Cold. Analytical. She hesitated for a second… but curiosity was stronger.

—Hello… —he said, trying to break the ice— I guess we're seatmates now.

Silence.

He watched her for a few more seconds, as if evaluating whether it was worth responding.

Then he rested his elbow on the desk, moving slightly closer.

"I don't talk to anyone," he murmured, his voice low and rough, "...especially not to people who don't understand what they're getting themselves into."

He paused.

Without taking his eyes off her.

—So tell me… are you brave or just reckless?