Lily knew she should have ignored Ethan Walker.
But he made that impossible.
It started in chemistry class.
She arrived early, set her books neatly on her desk, and pulled out her notebook. She liked being prepared. It made her feel in control.
Then Ethan walked in.
He dropped into the seat beside her like he owned it.
"You're in my seat," he said casually.
Lily looked up slowly. "Actually, I got here first."
He smirked. "Pretty sure this has always been my seat."
"Well, today it's mine."
His eyebrow lifted. "You're feisty for a new girl."
She crossed her arms. "You're rude for a stranger."
His friends laughed from the back of the class.
Ethan leaned closer. "You don't know who I am, do you?"
She met his eyes. "I don't care who you are."
For a moment, something flashed across his face — surprise.
Then the teacher walked in.
"Mr. Walker, sit somewhere else."
He sighed dramatically and stood up. "This isn't over, window girl."
She rolled her eyes. "Good. I was hoping for peace."
Later that day, Lily opened her locker and nearly screamed.
A soccer ball fell out.
She caught it just before it hit her face.
She turned around slowly.
Ethan stood there, trying not to laugh.
"You put that there?" she demanded.
"Relax. Just a joke."
"Not funny."
He tilted his head. "You're really something, Lily Carter."
"And you're really annoying, Ethan Walker."
They stared at each other.
Too long.
Her heart beat faster, and she hated that it did.
He looked away first.
"See you around, window girl."
And just like that, he walked away.
Lily shut her locker hard.
She had a feeling Ethan Walker was going to be trouble.
And somehow…
she knew she wasn't ready for how much.