Days turned into weeks, and the competition between Alexa and Richard only grew fiercer. They were neck and neck in every subject, and their teachers were amazed by their dedication and intellect.
But despite the tension between them, Alexa couldn't help but notice the way Richard's eyes crinkled at the corners when he smiled, or the way his hair curled slightly at the nape of his neck.
She shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. She couldn't let herself get distracted by Richard's charms. She had to stay focused on winning.
As the final exam approached, Alexa and Richard were studying tirelessly. They would often meet at the library, their books and notes spread out before them.
One evening, as they were studying, Richard looked up and caught Alexa staring at him. For a moment, they just locked eyes, the tension between them palpable.
"Hey," Richard said softly, his voice low and husky.
Alexa's heart skipped a beat. "Hey," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Richard's eyes held hers, and for a moment, Alexa felt like she was drowning in their depths.
Then, suddenly, Richard looked away, breaking the spell.
"Sorry," he muttered. "I didn't mean to distract you."
Alexa shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts. "It's okay," she said. "I think we've studied enough for tonight."
Richard nodded, gathering his things. "Yeah, you're right."
As they packed up their books and notes, Alexa couldn't help but feel a sense of disappointment. She had been enjoying the quiet moment with Richard, despite the tension between them.
As they walked out of the library, Richard turned to her. "Hey, Alexa?"
"Yeah?" she replied, looking up at him.
Richard's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Don't think you're going to win that easily."
Alexa's eyes narrowed. "Oh, I'm shaking in my boots."
Richard chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We'll see about that."
And with that, he turned and walked away, leaving Alexa feeling frustrated and intrigued.
