The first time I saw him, I knew he'd ruin my peace.
Aarav Malhotra.
The college's golden boy with a face that annoys me simply by existing. Girls practically melt when he walks past, but I swear my blood pressure rises instead.
Today, unfortunately, destiny decided to play with me.
I walked into the debate hall, fully prepared to win the captain's position. I'd worked for this for months. But the moment I stepped inside, he was already there—leaning against the podium like he owned the place.
And of course, he smirked the second his eyes met mine.
"Didn't expect you to show up," he said. His voice had that calm arrogance that made me want to punch him.
"Move," I snapped. "You're blocking my spot."
He chuckled, low and insulting. "Your spot? Cute."
The worst part? People laughed. He always knew how to turn the room against me. That's why I hated him… at least that's what I told myself.
I walked to the front anyway, chin up, refusing to let him see the way he got under my skin. But then—he stepped closer. Too close. His shoulder brushed mine, intentionally.
"Try not to embarrass yourself today," he whispered.
Jealousy flickered in my chest even though I had zero reason for it. Why was he watching me this closely? Why did he care whether I embarrassed myself or not?
I glared at him. "Don't worry. I'll win. You can clap for me later."
His jaw tightened. That reaction… oh, he didn't like that. Good.
He leaned in, eyes locked on mine. "If you win, I'll clap. But don't forget—you're standing in my arena."
I hated the way my heartbeat reacted. I hated the smug look on his face.
I hated him…
I think.
But one thing was clear—this wasn't just rivalry anymore.
This was a battle, and he had just declared war.
And I'm not losing to him.
Not him.
Not ever.
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