The hallways of Crestwood High were alive with whispers by Tuesday morning. Rumors had started to swirl—Mia and Liam were spending too much time together. Students speculated endlessly, turning their partnership into something more than just a school project.
Mia felt the familiar sting of judgment as snide comments followed her down the corridor. Liam caught her flinch and shot a protective glare at anyone who dared speak too loud.
Despite their growing connection, the rumors stoked old walls of rivalry and mistrust inside them. When Liam overheard a group joking that Mia was using him just to win, he confronted her after class.
"Is that what this is to you? A game?" he demanded, voice low but tense.
Mia's eyes flashed with hurt and frustration. "No. But maybe I'm just tired of people assuming things about me."
The confrontation left both shaken, realizing the fight wasn't just between them anymore—it was against the world's expectations.