I whispered a quick "hey" to Andrew from across the table. He looked up, flashed me a grin, and his dark brown eyes sparkled for a second.

We were in the Aereum Heights University library, the elite school where only the best of the best made the cut. Getting in wasn't easy, but every year, they give out scholarships to the top ten students—students like me.

It was a big deal, but the pressure here was unreal. Some students drop out—not because they can't keep up with the grades, but because of the insane bullying and toxic politics that came with being in the top.

Most of the rich kids here were either socialites or bullies, but Andrew? He was different. He wasn't one of them. Second in our class, always quiet but never rude. He wasn't the super rich kid, but he wasn't poor either—his dad owned a restaurant, and that's where I worked part-time.

I tried to focus on my book, but I couldn't help sneaking glances at him. His black hair. His sharp jawline. The way he carried himself. He wasn't super friendly but he wasn't cold either.

Then, out of nowhere, he pulled up a chair next to me. "Can I sit here?" he asked, his voice smooth and calm.

I forced a casual smile and replied, "Sure," trying my best not to sound flustered as Andrew slid into the chair beside me.He leaned back, stretching his arms before resting them on the table. "So, how are you doing?" he asked, his voice light and easy.

"Great. What about you?" I tilted my head, eyeing him curiously. "Although, I have to say... I've been noticing a certain someone skipping classes lately. Never thought I'd see the day Andrew Darson, of all people, would be bunking lectures. What's the deal? Secret plan to steal my rank?" I teased, raising an eyebrow.

Andrew rolled his eyes, but a small giggle escaped. "Yeah, right. As if I could dethrone you." He shook his head before lowering his voice slightly, glancing around as if making sure no one was listening.

"Actually… I've just been a little distracted. I, uh—started dating someone."I blinked. "Wait, what?"He rubbed the back of his neck, his cheeks flushing the lightest shade of red. "Yeah. I'm in a relationship now," he admitted with a sheepish grin.

"And I'm only telling you, so don't go spreading it."For a split second, my brain short-circuited."Oh," I managed, before quickly plastering on a bright smile.

"Wow! Congratulations! You finally looked up from your books long enough to notice someone." I let out a laugh, hoping it sounded genuine.It wasn't that I wasn't happy for him—I was.

But I also couldn't ignore the tiny sting in my chest, the little what-if that had always been buried under logic and the knowledge that it would never happen.

Andrew glanced at his watch and sighed. "Crap, I think I'm running late for class." He stood up, slinging his bag over his shoulder. "See you around, yeah?""Yeah, see you," I replied, watching as he walked away, completely unaware of the quiet heartbreak I was trying so hard to ignore.

As I was about to focus on my book again, I heard the sound of heels clicking—sharp, deliberate, and attention-seeking. Bella Hayes. Daughter of the university owner. Sister to Kian Hayes, the school's golden boy—or should I say, the playboy.

Richer than God, nastier than sin. Her second-in-command, Siri, trailed behind like an obedient pet. They didn't even lower their voices as they tore through the library, laughing at a first-year scholarship student.

Then, like clockwork, Bella turned to me. "Iyra," she drawled, sliding onto my table like she owned it. "Miss me?" Bella said, swinging her legs. I stayed silent. Siri said, "Don't do anything or this bitch will bark about us in front of Rose." My blood boiled at her comment, like she is not the one sticking with Bella just to boss others, but there is nothing I can say because I don't want to create a mess for myself. I know better than anyone, and to play it safe, Bella and Siri walked away, tossing a card on my table.

After they went, "I opened it at Aereum Heights University fresher party. Really, they are inviting. Of course not, they must need someone for preparation.

They wouldn't want me at their party. I was still lost in my thoughts when I heard whispers of several girls leaving. Oh, it's time for the basketball match; they are going to see Kian Hayes. Well, I don't know what's so special about him. I only saw him with Rose sometimes; I don't even remember his face properly, but yeah I remember he has grey eyes and girls say he looks like a anime character walked out of television though I admit he is handsome but personality ..tsk tsk trash ..he didn't even acknowledge my presence, even when I was with Rose—typical, rude like others here.

(Kian's POV)

The crowd roared. The scoreboard flashed. Final shot—mine. I pivoted, faked a pass, and sent the ball soaring. Clean. Perfect. Victory. "KIAN! KIAN! KIAN!" The gym was electric, my name echoing through the stands. I wiped sweat from my brow, running a hand through my damp hair. I bowed infront of the crowd and whispered towards the girls "thank for watching" as they screamed loudly

Nick, my teammate, tossed me a water bottle. "Stop pretending to be all humble. We know you love this." I smirked. "And they love me." Nick rolled his eyes. "You're impossible.",

I grabbed my phone, dialing Rose."You didn't come?" I asked as soon as she picked up."Busy."Where?"Home."Click. She hung up.I sighed, tossing the empty bottle at Nick. "Later, man." "Where you going?" "Rose's place.

"The bouquet sat on the passenger seat as I pulled up to her mansion. Rose had probably forgotten her own birthday. Typical. I still wonder how I have gotten so serious about this but yeah it's my childhood sweetheart crush and more i can do anything for her leaving my Playboy reputation is not a big deal.

I punched in the passcode, stepping inside. My smile faded as I saw a cake on the dinning table Already eaten am i late?, then she already celebrated it fuck i should have come earlier but anyway.

I took the stairs two at a time, pushing her bedroom door open. "Sorry I don't have patience to knock—"Words died in my throat as I saw .Rose. On her bed. A forkful of cake halfway to her mouth.Mark. Hand on her waist. Lips inches apart.Silence.

Heavy, suffocating.The bouquet slipped from my grip, petals scattering across the floor.Rose's eyes widened. "Kian, I can explain—""Don't bother." My voice was empty i don't feel like listening anything or i might loose my temper.

Without another word, I turned and walked out.

It wasn't exactly a surprise— was it? maybe I should've seen it coming. But still I expected loyalty,

but was there ever really a relationship to begin with? She said she wasn't sure about her feelings, but hadn't she always known mine? I have always been someone she can keep on hook as the realisation finally hit me like a punch my vision start blurring no way I will cry I wiped my tears harshly before it falls.

I took a deep breath and start my car From childhood until now, I had a crush on her. Our parents were great friends, we spent holidays together, went to the same school, and now, the same college. When she agreed to give us a chance—to see where things could go—I let go of my playboy ways. I tried to be a good boyfriend.

And for what? Just to see this . That all the fucking time i was just someone she was keeping on hook

(Rose's POV)

I sat on my bed, redialing Kian's number over and over, but it kept going to voicemail. Hugging my knees, I groaned in frustration and threw my phone onto the mattress. Ugh, what's his problem? It's not like we're… or were… in a relationship. So why is he acting so dramatic?Whatever. He'll come back on his own.I flopped onto my back, staring at the ceiling.

Exams were coming up, and if my rank dropped any further, Mom would chew me out. I was already in third place. Pushing the thought aside, I grabbed my phone and dialed Iyra's number.

(Iyra's POV)

"Hello?" I answered, barely getting the word out before Rose's dramatic whining hit my ears."Where are you, my bish?!" she huffed. "I have so much to talk about, and you need to help me study.

You know I can't survive without you."I sighed, shaking my head. "Relax, relax. Should I come over?""Obviously!" she chirped before hanging up without another word.I stared at my phone for a second, shaking off my thoughts.

Rose was… Rose. I didn't care what she did with other people, but at least she treated me decently. And she had her reasons for keeping me around—just like I had mine.

I grabbed my bag, zipping it up before heading out. If it weren't for Rose, I would've been just another scholarship student turned bully bait. The ones who couldn't handle the pressure, who dropped out before the year was even over. But Rose? She stood up for me. Just being labeled as her best friend was a shield in itself.

Because she wasn't just anyone. She was Rose Aurelia Whitemore.Aurelia—meaning gold. And, honestly? The name fit. She was golden. Filthy rich. The daughter of a renowned journalist and a business tycoon.

Not that I'd ever met her parents—she lived alone here.But in this college? She ruled. The queen bee, the it girl, the untouchable. Blonde hair, a perfect hourglass figure, skin like freshly fallen snow—she was a real-life Cinderella. Except, unlike the fairy tale, she wasn't some helpless girl waiting for a prince. She was a player—though not everyone knew that. And those who did?

...Well… they weren't stupid enough to say a word.I was one of them.We were nothing alike—worlds apart, really. But somehow, we were still best friends....

(Iyra's POV)

The moment I stepped into Rose's house, the scent of vanilla candles and expensive perfume hit me.

The place was as grand as ever—modern, sleek, with floor-to-ceiling windows that overlooked the city.

A maid greeted me at the door with a polite nod before disappearing down the hall, and within minutes, Rose and I were sprawled out on her oversized couch, buried in books.

For an hour, we actually focused. Then, like always, Rose got bored.She tossed her pen onto the table and started pacing, arms crossed, ranting like she was delivering a TED Talk on Why Kian Is Annoying."And then," she huffed, "he just stormed off like I committed a crime!" She threw her hands up.

"Like, seriously, it's not like we were together or anything! Ugh! Kian is so dramatic.

"I hummed, half-listening, my fingers tapping absently against my notebook.

Finally, I took a deep breath and looked up."I don't know much about relationships, situationships, or whatever it is you two had, but…" I shrugged.

"If you never gave him a commitment or promised anything, then it's not really your fault. As far as I know, Kian has always been like this with girls—he should be fine.

I paused, tapping my pen against the book. "Just don't expect him to be all cool and collected about it."

"He's hurt, Rose. Whether you meant to or not, you hurt him."

She rolled her eyes but didn't argue.

Instead, after a long silence, she muttered, "I just don't like when things don't go according to me."

I quirked a brow. "You mean even people's reactions?"

Rose only shrugged, but I already knew the answer. It sounded toxic—because, honestly, it was.

But it wasn't shocking. In this place, everyone had a little toxicity in them, a little narcissism mixed into their DNA.

Even me, for judging. Before I could say more, her phone rang, cutting through the silence. "We're having a blast! You have to come!" a voice on the other end yelled over loud music.Rose's lips curled into a grin. "Sure!" She grabbed her car keys and turned to me, opening her mouth—only to stop midway, giving me a once-over."You wanna jo—" She cut herself off, tilting her head.

Then, with a smirk, she said, "Never mind. I'm going. You should head back to your hostel."And just like that, she walked out.I stared at the door for a second before rolling my eyes. "This bitch."

Not the first time. Definitely wouldn't be the last. One moment, she treated me like her best friend, and the next, she reminded me exactly where I stood.I exhaled sharply, stuffing my books into my bag. I swear, I keep punching my own self-respect just to survive here.With that, I grabbed my things and headed back to my hostel.

(Author's POV)

Kian sat in a dimly lit corner, swirling a glass of soda in his hand while music pulsed around him. Girls kept sneaking glances his way, but he wasn't in the mood.

Nick dropped into the seat beside him. "Dude. What is with that face? It's a party, not a funeral."

Kian didn't even look up. "Whatever."

Nick snatched the soda from his hand and replaced it with a glass of alcohol. "Here. Drink and cry it out if you're heartbroken. If not, then at least enjoy."

Kian scoffed. "You know I don't drink." He exhaled sharply. "And there was never a relationship to begin with, so there's nothing to be heartbroken about.

"It sounded more like he was convincing himself.

Nick rolled his eyes. "Yeah, sure." He walked off, leaving Kian alone again.

Rose strutted into the party like she owned the place—because, honestly, she kinda did. The bass thumped through the walls, neon lights casting wild shadows across the crowd.

As she stepped inside, her gaze effortlessly scanned the room.Kian saw her instantly.

His grip tightened around his glass, knuckles turning white as he watched her throw her arms around Mark, laughing like nothing had happened.

Are you kidding me?

His jaw clenched. He barely heard Nick beside him, shoving another glass into his hand. His thoughts were too busy spinning, fueled by the way Rose carried herself—like he was just another forgettable name in her history book.

She turned, her sharp gaze locking onto him.Kian didn't hesitate.

If she wanted to act like nothing happened? Fine. Two can play that game.

He downed the drink in one go, the burn searing his throat, and muttered under his breath, "Game on.

"Then, with his signature, heart-melting smirk in place, he strolled over to a group of girls like he had all the time in the world."Hey, ladies," he drawled, his voice smooth as silk.

The reaction was immediate. They practically melted. One of them—a brunette in a scandalous red dress—twirled a lock of hair between her fingers, her lips curling into a playful smirk."Well, well," she teased.

"Kian finally decided to have some fun?"

"Maybe," he mused, leaning in slightly, his voice dropping just enough to send a shiver down her spine.

"Depends on how good of a dancer you are."

She arched a brow. "Guess you'll have to find out for yourself."

Kian chuckled, offering his hand.

She took it without hesitation, practically dragging him toward the dance floor.

Meanwhile,

Rose's heels came to a dead stop.Her breath hitched as she watched Kian slip into the crowd, hands resting lightly on the brunette's waist, their faces inches apart.

Mark nudged her. "You good?"Rose's fingers clenched around her purse, her nails digging into the fabric. "Yeah," she said, forcing a smile. "Totally."Without another word, she spun on her heels and disappeared into the crowd.

(Iyra's POV)

I paced back and forth on the terrace of my hostel, gripping my notes like they were my lifeline.

My eyes burned with exhaustion, but I forced myself to keep reading out loud—if I stopped moving, I'd pass out on the spot.

And I couldn't afford that.

Not with so much left to study.A burst of laughter echoed from below, snapping me out of my thoughts.

I leaned against the railing, peering down at the street.

A group of drunk couples, probably from my university, stumbled their way home, whispering and giggling like the world didn't hold a single problem for them.

My grip on my book tightened. Must be nice. To live without worrying about grades,

money,

the future.

To have the luxury of just being. For me,

even stepping into college felt like walking into a battlefield, every day another fight to survive.

I exhaled sharply, biting the inside of my cheek. If only I had parents, maybe life wouldn't feel like this endless race to nowhere.

I didn't even notice the tear slipping down my cheek until a voice called out.I looked down again.

One of the guys from the drunk crowd was waving at me—clumsy, awkward, like he wasn't even sure why he was doing it.

Then, out of nowhere, he struck a ridiculous pose, fingers forming a wonky smile.I blinked.

He mumbled something I couldn't catch before stumbling off with his friends, the moment fleeting as quickly as it had come.

For a second, I just stood there, stunned. Then, without meaning to, a small smile tugged at my lips. I should've waved back.

My gaze lingered on his retreating figure, my eyes catching on the bright, goofy smiley-face cap he was wearing and because of that i wasn't able to see his face. Maybe that's why he did it.

Like some random drunk angel dropping by to remind me the world wasn't just stress and deadlines.

I let out a breathy laugh before shaking my head, snapping my attention back to my notes.

No time for angels. I have a war to win.

(Kian's POV)

The music thumped through my skull, but my head was spinning for an entirely different reason.

Maybe it was the alcohol. Yeah… definitely the alcohol.Why the hell did I drink that whole glass in one shot? Well i know but still I wasn't a drinker—never had been.

And now? Now I was paying for it.

I pressed my fingers to my temple, trying to steady myself.

The brunette I'd been dancing with immediately picked up on it."You okay?" she asked, her brows knitting together in concern."Yeah… yeah, I'm fine,

I just—" My words trailed off as my eyes flicked to the spot where Rose had been standing.

She wasn't there anymore.Something inside me twisted."I think I need some air," I muttered.

The brunette took a step closer, tilting her head. "Want me to come with you?"I could see it written all over her face—she wasn't just offering out of kindness.

She was hoping for something else.I forced a small smile, shaking my head. "Oh, no, I mean… sorry if I'm disappointing you, but I think I just need a moment alone.

"She laughed lightly, waving a dismissive hand. "No worries. Didn't expect the infamous Kian Hayes to tap out first, though.

"I chuckled dryly, grabbing my jacket and making my way outside.

(Author's POV)

The brunette watched him leave, sighing dramatically. "How is he this sweet? I thought he was supposed to be a heartbreaker

"Meanwhile,

Kian stepped out of the club, the cool air hitting him like a slap to the face.

Nick spotted him immediately, jogging over with a smirk plastered across his face.

The second he got close, he burst out laughing.

Kian groaned. "What now?"Nick wheezed, barely able to get his words out. "Dude… your cheeks are red.

"Kian frowned, touching his face. Damn. It's warm.

Nick clapped a hand on his shoulder.

"You really drank that, huh? First time getting buzzed—understandable."

"Kian shot him a glare. "Shut up.

Nick snickered. "Nah, man. You're wasted."

"I'm not drunk," Kian said firmly, standing up straighter.

"I'm Kian Hayes."

Nick raised a brow, full of sarcasm. "Oh, right. My bad.

"Kian rolled his eyes. "I'm fine."

Nick ignored him, glancing around. "Yeah, no. You're not driving. Taxi's not an option either…"

He scanned the area before suddenly snapping his fingers. "Wait here."Kian watched as Nick sauntered over to a group of their friends, exchanging a few words.

Then, he came back grinning."Alright, you're going with them. And for the love of God, walk carefully."

Kian muttered under his breath, already annoyed. "Like I have a choice."

"Wait,"

Nick stopped him, pulling something off his own head.

Before Kian could react, he shoved a ridiculous smiley-faced cap onto him.Kian blinked. "What. The. Hell."

Nick smirked.

"Can't have my boy getting preyed on by some random chick while he's tipsy.

"Kian ripped the cap off. "I swear—"But Nick had already bolted back into the club, laughing.

Kian sighed, shoving the cap back on begrudgingly and following the group.

(Kian's POV)

A few minutes into the walk, I was already plotting Nick's downfall.

Couldn't that asshole just take a break from partying and drive me home?

I shoved my hands into my pockets, half-listening to the group's chatter while my gaze wandered over the empty streets.

The city at night had this weird way of making you feel small.

And then, out of nowhere, I spotted her.A girl, standing on a rooftop terrace, staring down at us.She looked… sad and i am sad too but I can't and i don't want to show i am sad ...why? .I don't know why, but something about the way she stood there made my stomach twist.

So, naturally, I did the dumbest thing imaginable.

I waved.Not just a normal wave. Oh no. My brain, already slightly intoxicated, decided to throw in a stupid finger-gun pose with an over-the-top grin.I looked like a complete clown.

The girl didn't react.I internally cringed.

Jesus, Kian, you just made yourself look like an absolute creep.Muttering to myself, I kept walking, stumbling slightly as I followed the group.Yep.

Definitely gonna kill Nick tomorrow.