I Tormented the Weakest Student, Unaware He Ruled the Campus (2026) - AI Full Drama

Name: I Tormented the Weakest Student, Unaware He Ruled the Campus (2026) - AI Full Drama
Uploaded: 2026-10-05T20:33:44+00:00
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00:00:00After transferring to a total dump of a high school for my senior year, to avoid being bullied,

00:00:05I chose the biggest pushover in class, Mason Cole, to pick on.

00:00:08I snatched his breakfast, drank his water, and cornered him outside school after class to slap him.

00:00:15Sure enough, as long as I acted tough enough, nobody dared mess with me.

00:00:19Until one day, I saw the pushover I'd been picking on nonstop step on the punk who'd messed with me.

00:00:24You've got some nerve. You even dared mess with our top dog?

00:00:29Wait, aren't you the top dog?

00:00:31Nope. Nora Taylor is.

00:00:34Me?

00:00:35My parents had to relocate for work, so I had no choice but to transfer to this dump of a

00:00:40school.

00:00:40How bad was it?

00:00:41There were ten homerooms in my grade, but only one took school seriously.

00:00:45Good news, I was in that honors group.

00:00:47Bad news, apparently, even the honors kids bullied people.

00:00:50My best friend Sophie said a nerd like me was the easiest target.

00:00:54If I wanted to study in peace, I had to make myself look hard to mess with.

00:00:58Do I look tough enough?

00:01:02Oh, little chipmunk.

00:01:03Even when you're mad, you look like you just scamper away.

00:01:06I had already been at this school for a week.

00:01:08So far, nobody had bullied me.

00:01:10But everyone kept looking at me strangely, almost like they felt sorry for me.

00:01:14Nobody talked to me either.

00:01:16I had no idea if that was the first sign of bullying.

00:01:18I was seriously worried.

00:01:20After thinking it over and over, I finally came up with an idea.

00:01:23As a pushover myself, maybe I should pick on an even bigger pushover.

00:01:27I looked around the classroom, weighing my options carefully.

00:01:30Then my eyes landed on the boys sleeping at the desk beside me.

00:01:35Mason Cole spent most of the school day asleep in the week since I transferred here.

00:01:39I hadn't seen anyone in class talk to him.

00:01:41He was probably being left out, so he had to be an even bigger pushover than me.

00:01:45Mason, I have a favor to ask.

00:01:47You have to say yes.

00:01:49Mason didn't move or say a word.

00:01:51Silence meant yes.

00:01:54When I bully you later, don't complain, okay?

00:01:59You're going to bully who?

00:02:01Poor guy.

00:02:02Not only was he being left out, his hearing wasn't great either.

00:02:04I repeated it slowly.

00:02:06You.

00:02:08You?

00:02:09You're going to bully me?

00:02:11Yes, but I have a reason.

00:02:15Okay, let's hear it.

00:02:17I told him about my trashy school survival rules.

00:02:20If I looked easy to push around, the troublemakers would target me, so I needed to look tough.

00:02:24Mason went quiet for a moment.

00:02:26That was when I finally got a good look at him, sharp eyes, strong jaw, but his sleepy

00:02:30look made him seem almost harmless.

00:02:32So after a whole week of looking for a pushover, you picked me?

00:02:37Fine.

00:02:39Let's see how you plan to bully me.

00:02:41It was my first time bullying someone.

00:02:43I was a little nervous.

00:02:44I swallowed a few times and straightened my clothes.

00:02:47Then I shot to my feet and kicked Mason's chair leg hard.

00:02:49The chair didn't budge, but the noise made the whole class look over.

00:02:52Everyone stared at me, followed by a wave of gasps.

00:02:55It worked.

00:02:56They already looked a little scared of me.

00:02:58Mason lifted his eyes and looked up at me.

00:03:00So innocent.

00:03:01My heart softened.

00:03:02But it was too late to back out now.

00:03:03I leaned down and whispered in his ear.

00:03:06Sorry.

00:03:07I'll make it up to you after I'm done bullying you.

00:03:09Mason stiffened.

00:03:10The tips of his ears turned slightly red.

00:03:12I put on my fiercest face and reached for his desk, planning to snatch his pen.

00:03:16But there was nothing there.

00:03:17So I grabbed his water bottle instead.

00:03:19Another wave of gasps swept through the classroom.

00:03:21I twisted off the cap and gulped down the whole bottle.

00:03:24This time the gasps stopped.

00:03:26Holy shit.

00:03:27Mason shot a cold glance in that direction.

00:03:29Everyone who had been watching immediately looked away.

00:03:32I tossed the empty bottle onto his desk.

00:03:35I already drank from that.

00:03:39So?

00:03:39I don't mind.

00:03:42What if I do?

00:03:44Trashy school survival rule number one.

00:03:46Pushovers don't get to say no.

00:03:49After picking on my pushover, the way my classmates looked at me changed from pity to a mix of respect

00:03:54and fear.

00:03:55To keep up my tough girl image, I kept picking on Mason.

00:03:58I took half his breakfast.

00:03:59The next day, he brought two.

00:04:01When he slept in class, I dragged him up and made him listen.

00:04:03The next day, he came with earplugs, of course.

00:04:06I took those away, too.

00:04:07Every day, I kicked Mason's chair whenever I passed by.

00:04:10Then I secretly apologized afterward.

00:04:12Mason really had a good temper.

00:04:14No matter how much I pushed him around, he never got mad.

00:04:17No wonder everyone in class left him out.

00:04:19But I wasn't actually a bad person.

00:04:21Every time I bullied him, I found some way to make it up to him.

00:04:24Mason never brought textbooks or pens.

00:04:26Maybe the people who bullied him before had thrown them away.

00:04:28So I copied my textbooks and notes for him and bought him a cute bear pen.

00:04:32Whenever I found a good snack, I brought him some, too.

00:04:35Whenever I saw a nice notebook, I got him one.

00:04:37Little by little, more and more things appear on Mason's desk.

00:04:40Even his plain black backpack ended up with a little bear charm hanging from it.

00:04:46On the way home after school, I heard some classmates talking about how the top dog at our school finally

00:04:51had a crush.

00:04:53He's 6'2 and carrying around a little bear pen now.

00:04:56How cute is that?

00:04:57Guess even someone like him can fall hard.

00:04:59So many people chased him before.

00:05:01He turned the girls down and the guys got beaten up.

00:05:04Now he finally likes someone and look at him.

00:05:06Completely lovesick.

00:05:07I listened for a while but never heard the top dog's name.

00:05:09The next day, I told Mason about it.

00:05:11Do you know who the top dog is?

00:05:14Why do you want to know?

00:05:16If we know who he is, we can avoid him when we see him.

00:05:18Mason looked like he wanted to say something.

00:05:20As the biggest pushover in class, he probably didn't know who the top dog was either.

00:05:24I patted his shoulder.

00:05:25It's okay if you don't know.

00:05:27I heard the top dog has a crush now, so he's probably in a good mood and won't bother us.

00:05:31Mason started coughing hard.

00:05:33Poor guy.

00:05:33Just hearing about the top dog scared him that much.

00:05:38Apparently, whatever I worried about came true.

00:05:40I should have worried about getting into a top school instead.

00:05:43On my way home after school, I ran into a group of punk.

00:05:46After they threatened me, I lost 10 bucks and gained a boba.

00:05:49The next day, I dragged myself into school.

00:05:52What happened?

00:05:55I'm not bullying you anymore.

00:05:57Acting tough doesn't work at all.

00:05:59Why?

00:06:00A punk took 10 bucks from me yesterday.

00:06:02What?

00:06:04It's okay.

00:06:04Don't be scared.

00:06:05Even if you run into them, it's only 10 bucks.

00:06:08I'm not scared.

00:06:09Never mind.

00:06:10Tell me what he looked like.

00:06:12Uh, his head looked like a pudding.

00:06:14Died blonde with brown roots growing out.

00:06:18Okay.

00:06:19Got it.

00:06:20He pulled out his phone and started typing quickly.

00:06:22I had no idea who he was texting.

00:06:25I feel kind of guilty for bullying you all this time.

00:06:28Since it didn't work, I'll stop.

00:06:30Who said it didn't work?

00:06:31Did you ever think maybe you just weren't bullying me hard enough?

00:06:33Huh?

00:06:35Didn't you notice everyone in class started fearing you after you bullied me?

00:06:38I nodded.

00:06:39That was true.

00:06:40Even the class rep practically bowed to me when collecting homework today.

00:06:44Mason looked at me, his expression softening again.

00:06:47After school, when everyone's outside the school entrance, bully me as hard as you can.

00:06:52I promise no one will ever mess with you again.

00:06:56I was so nervous before.

00:06:58I had only bullied Mason in front of our class.

00:07:00Now I had to do it in front of the whole school.

00:07:02Just walking beside him.

00:07:04I could feel eyes on us everywhere.

00:07:06Could they tell I was about to bully him?

00:07:08My palms were sweating.

00:07:09I kept taking deep breath.

00:07:11All right.

00:07:11You can start now.

00:07:14Somehow we had already reached the school entrance.

00:07:16He looked at me with a smile.

00:07:18Want me to hold your backpack so you can hit harder?

00:07:22A light breeze brushed through his hair.

00:07:24For once, he looked strangely gentle.

00:07:25I stared for a second.

00:07:27My heart skipped a beat.

00:07:28Mason gave me a small nod, telling me to go ahead.

00:07:31I let out a long breath, raised my hand, and closed my eyes.

00:07:34Then I swung as hard as I could at his shoulder with a smack.

00:07:36Everything around us went silent.

00:07:38The sound was way too sharp, and the hit felt wrong.

00:07:41I snapped my eyes open.

00:07:42Mason had bent down slightly.

00:07:44His face turned to the side.

00:07:45Red finger marks stood out across his cheek.

00:07:49The crowded school entrance went completely silent.

00:07:51Everyone was staring at us.

00:07:53My mind went blank.

00:07:54I swear I was only trying to hit his shoulder.

00:07:56Who knew he would bend down right then?

00:07:57At that exact height, my palm landed squarely across his face.

00:08:01Honestly, I wanted to drop to my knees and apologize right there.

00:08:04Slapping someone in front of everyone was way too humiliating, but Mason didn't seem

00:08:08to care at all.

00:08:09He pressed his tongue against the inside of his cheek, then casually took my backpack from

00:08:13me.

00:08:14Done.

00:08:15Then he wrapped an arm around my stiff shoulders and walked away with me in front of everyone.

00:08:19I kept sneaking glances at his face.

00:08:21The finger marks had already faded, so why was his face getting redder?

00:08:25Are you okay?

00:08:26I really didn't mean to hit your face.

00:08:28Yeah, I know.

00:08:29Should I get you some ice water for it?

00:08:31I'm fine.

00:08:31Then why is your face still so red?

00:08:35If you keep staring at me like that, it'll get even redder.

00:08:38Okay.

00:08:38I quickly looked away and stopped staring.

00:08:41I still felt terrible and kept apologizing.

00:08:43Mason generously told me it was fine.

00:08:45You're going to be pretty famous after this.

00:08:47No one should dare mess with you now.

00:08:49We finally reached my house.

00:08:51I nervously picked at my fingers, then bowed deeply to him.

00:08:56I'll make it up to you.

00:08:58How?

00:09:03I haven't figured that out yet.

00:09:06It's fine.

00:09:08Take your time.

00:09:09You're protecting me from now on anyway.

00:09:10I racked my brain trying to figure out how to make up for that slap.

00:09:13Everything before had been minor, but slapping him in the face wasn't something a small gift

00:09:17could fix.

00:09:18I tossed and turned all night before finally coming up with an idea.

00:09:21The next morning, I went to school with dark circles under my eyes.

00:09:25Mason pushed the breakfast he had brought toward me.

00:09:27What were you doing last night?

00:09:29You look exhausted.

00:09:32Thinking about you.

00:09:35Thinking about what?

00:09:37You.

00:09:38I spent all night thinking about how to make it up to you, and I finally figured it out.

00:09:42Oh.

00:09:43So that's what you meant.

00:09:45What else would I mean?

00:09:46Nothing.

00:09:48So how are you going to make it up to me?

00:09:54Come here.

00:09:55I'll tell you quietly.

00:09:56What are you doing?

00:09:58Come on.

00:09:59I can't say this out loud.

00:10:03The way I want to make it up to you might be a little offensive.

00:10:08So I'm not sure if you'll agree.

00:10:11How offensive.

00:10:14It'll be a little forced.

00:10:17And once we start, you can't ask me to stop.

00:10:22Why are you so red?

00:10:23Is it too hot?

00:10:24Miss straight A?

00:10:25You're into that kind of thing?

00:10:26It's actually how I relieve stress from studying.

00:10:28Of course, if you don't want to, that's fine.

00:10:30That's why I wanted to tell you quietly.

00:10:32It's kind of a lot to ask, and I don't think our relationship is quite there yet.

00:10:36Give me a second to mentally prepare.

00:10:37Okay.

00:10:38Think about it.

00:10:38It'll hurt, but it'll feel good too.

00:10:40I think you'll learn to like it.

00:10:41Mason looked up at me, browsed slightly furrowed.

00:10:43How did you figure that out?

00:10:45Was it because of that slap outside school?

00:10:48I've been watching you for a while.

00:10:50I think you have a lot of potential.

00:10:56Okay.

00:10:57I'll do it.

00:11:00Great.

00:11:01Then let's start next week.

00:11:02We can do it at my house.

00:11:04I still need to get some tools ready.

00:11:08Tools, too?

00:11:10Relax.

00:11:11Just leave yourself to me.

00:11:12I'm very experienced at this.

00:11:15Over the next few days, something felt a little off.

00:11:18Whenever I walked through school, some pretty intimidating students actually bowed to me.

00:11:22One or two.

00:11:23I could blame on mistaken identity, but on the short walk from class to the cafeteria,

00:11:27seven or eight of them did it.

00:11:28That was way too weird.

00:11:30I was too timid to ask.

00:11:31Whenever they bowed to me, I bowed back.

00:11:33Then they bowed even lower and ran off looking terrified.

00:11:37Mason, any idea what's going on?

00:11:43Maybe they just, like, bowing?

00:11:45Don't worry about it.

00:11:46Then what's been going on with you lately?

00:11:48You avoid my eyes, jump every time I touch you, and keep turning red.

00:11:52Oh, I know.

00:11:54You know what?

00:11:55Did you do something guilty behind my back?

00:11:57Dreams don't count as doing something guilty.

00:11:59What did you say?

00:12:01Nothing.

00:12:02Fine.

00:12:02Don't forget to come over this weekend.

00:12:04The tools are here.

00:12:05Mason turned red again.

00:12:07See?

00:12:07I knew something was wrong with him.

00:12:10That weekend, I studied while waiting for Mason.

00:12:13The doorbell rang right on time.

00:12:15I opened the door.

00:12:16Mason stood quietly outside.

00:12:17But somehow, he looked so good it startled me.

00:12:20I looked closer.

00:12:21His hair was actually styled today.

00:12:23And he smelled faintly of something cool and woody.

00:12:25When Mason noticed me staring, his ears turned red.

00:12:28Aren't you going to let me in?

00:12:31Oh, sorry.

00:12:33You smell really good today.

00:12:35Mason stumbled.

00:12:36I quickly grabbed his arm.

00:12:38His forearm was so firm.

00:12:39I knew he was on the football team, but I'd never paid much attention to it.

00:12:43And I'd never seen him in a sleeveless shirt before.

00:12:45I had no idea his arms looked this good.

00:12:48Mason sat down at my desk, his face still red.

00:12:51I handed him a glass of ice water.

00:12:52You've been getting red a lot lately.

00:12:53You must be hot.

00:12:54Have some ice water.

00:12:59Okay.

00:13:00Let's start.

00:13:03Right here?

00:13:04Where else?

00:13:06Is the study room not okay?

00:13:11Whatever you like.

00:13:12Now I was excited.

00:13:14I smiled and slowly moved closer.

00:13:16Mason's pretty face was right in front of mine.

00:13:18His long lashes fluttered.

00:13:19Then he closed his eyes like he was bracing himself.

00:13:23I bent down and pulled a huge sat prep book from under the desk.

00:13:26I slammed it onto the desk.

00:13:29Surprise!

00:13:29Mason stared at the sat prep book for at least five minutes.

00:13:32I thought he was just too surprised to react.

00:13:34I patted him.

00:13:35What are you waiting for?

00:13:36Start.

00:13:37When you said forced, you meant forcing me to do practice questions?

00:13:40Not just that.

00:13:41I made a whole plan just for you.

00:13:42So technically it's for studying.

00:13:43This is how you relieve study stress?

00:13:45It's kind of a weird habit.

00:13:47I like making other people study.

00:13:48It helps them and I get to review everything too.

00:13:51And when I see you improve, it feels really good.

00:13:55Then what did you mean by once we start, we can't stop?

00:13:58I already bought all the tools.

00:13:59I spent money on them.

00:14:00Of course we can't stop now.

00:14:02So the tools were these books?

00:14:06Mason tried to escape several times.

00:14:08Every time, I pushed him back into his chair.

00:14:10He had agreed to this before.

00:14:12Now he wanted to run.

00:14:13Not happening.

00:14:14This was forced studying.

00:14:18Trashy school survival rule number two.

00:14:20Nothing beats a good education.

00:14:22Then I guess I'm hopeless.

00:14:24Bye.

00:14:24I smacked his back with the pointer without mercy.

00:14:26Mason turned around and stared at me in disbelief.

00:14:29That's right.

00:14:29I might look quiet and harmless most of the time.

00:14:31But once I started studying, I was a completely different person.

00:14:34The strictest little tutor was here.

00:14:36Prepare yourself, Mason.

00:14:37Under my relentless tutoring, Mason was forced to study like crazy.

00:14:40Watching his grades shoot up, I felt amazing.

00:14:43I knew I hadn't picked the wrong person.

00:14:44Mason slept through class every day and still stayed in honors.

00:14:47So he obviously wasn't bad at school.

00:14:49When I made his study plan, I even went through all his tests from the past two years.

00:14:53Whenever he actually tried, he scored pretty well.

00:14:55His grades stayed mediocre because he kept missing quizzes.

00:15:01Another weekend, Mason was studying at my house.

00:15:03I tapped his head with the pointer and demanded,

00:15:05Tell me, why do you keep missing quizzes?

00:15:08I overslept.

00:15:09Try missing another quiz this semester.

00:15:11You know what I'll do, right?

00:15:13You'll beat me to death with that thing.

00:15:15Mm-hmm.

00:15:17I'm going to take a shower now.

00:15:20You're going to shower?

00:15:25Be good and finish it.

00:15:26I'll test you when I get back.

00:15:27Mason was losing his mind.

00:15:29Sure, he had misunderstood her before.

00:15:31But seriously, he wouldn't after hearing all that.

00:15:33He had spent a whole week preparing himself.

00:15:35He even showed up at her house looking and smelling his best.

00:15:38And left carrying three sap prep books thick enough to kill him.

00:15:41Who was he supposed to complain to?

00:15:43Fine.

00:15:43He could study.

00:15:44If it made her happy, he'd do it.

00:15:46But now this.

00:15:46What did she mean she'd test him after her shower?

00:15:49Did she have any idea how suggestive she sounded?

00:15:53With the shower running in the background,

00:15:55Mason couldn't remember a single thing he had just studied.

00:15:57A little later, I started singing loudly from the bathroom.

00:16:00Completely off-key.

00:16:01And very, very happy.

00:16:03Mason covered his face and laughed.

00:16:04Yeah, he was completely done for.

00:16:06Tutoring someone was seriously fun and ridiculously satisfying.

00:16:10When our semester grades came out, Mason had made huge progress.

00:16:14He was still behind me.

00:16:15But he had already climbed into the top ten in our honors group.

00:16:18I was thrilled.

00:16:18I bought him ice cream and generously offered to grant him one wish.

00:16:22Anything?

00:16:23Yep.

00:16:23As long as I can do it.

00:16:27You can.

00:16:28But I'll save it for later.

00:16:30Sure.

00:16:30I was in a great mood and walked ahead happily.

00:16:32Then a blonde punk suddenly jumped in front of Mason.

00:16:35Bro, why are you smiling like an idiot?

00:16:39I found the pudding head you asked me to look into, but...

00:16:45You're the girl who slapped my bro outside school.

00:16:47Oh, future sister-in-law.

00:16:49Hi.

00:16:53He's my distant cousin.

00:16:55He tapped the guy on the head.

00:16:57He's not very bright.

00:17:00I'm taking my cousin to get his brain checked.

00:17:02Be careful on your way home.

00:17:03Then Mason dragged him away by the neck.

00:17:05I stood there frozen, my ice cream completely forgotten.

00:17:08Three minutes later, I made the boldest decision of my life.

00:17:11I followed Mason.

00:17:12That blonde punk had mentioned a pudding head.

00:17:14Had Mason secretly asked him to find the punk who took my money.

00:17:17And that blonde punk definitely looked like trouble.

00:17:19Was Mason getting involved because of me?

00:17:21I pictured Mason quietly getting beaten up somewhere.

00:17:24No way.

00:17:24Mason was under my protection now.

00:17:26I followed them all the way to another school's field house.

00:17:29I peeked through the door.

00:17:30Six or seven pudding heads stood in a row.

00:17:33I froze.

00:17:33How were there this many pudding heads in the world?

00:17:38Bro, these are the guys who were near your school that day.

00:17:41But none of them admitted taking money from a student.

00:17:45Cole, even if you gave us ten lives,

00:17:47we wouldn't dare mess with anyone from your school.

00:17:49I kept peeking through the cracks.

00:17:51It looked like the pudding head was bowing to the blonde punk.

00:17:53Wow, that blonde punk was impressive.

00:17:55At least Mason probably wouldn't get beaten up now.

00:17:58Yeah, Cole.

00:17:58I even bought a girl from your school boba once.

00:18:01She was pretty shy, too.

00:18:03She insisted on giving me ten bucks for it.

00:18:04Mason, who'd been lounging in his chair the whole time,

00:18:07finally sat up straight.

00:18:08The blonde punk waved a hand.

00:18:10Everyone else immediately moved aside.

00:18:13Did she say she wanted boba?

00:18:17Girls get shy.

00:18:18She was obviously playing hard to get.

00:18:20The next second, Mason stepped forward and kicked him hard in the thigh.

00:18:23The pudding head went flying.

00:18:25He hit the wall, then slid to the floor.

00:18:26When a girl says no, it means no.

00:18:29It means she's rejecting you and telling you to get lost.

00:18:33Try calling that playing hard to get again.

00:18:38She wasn't even mad, Cole.

00:18:40I swear, I didn't ask for that ten bucks.

00:18:42Mason didn't bother arguing.

00:18:43He kicked him twice more.

00:18:45The pudding head immediately shut up.

00:18:46Mason planted a foot on his shoulder.

00:18:48You've got some nerve.

00:18:49You even dared mess with our top dog?

00:18:53Aren't you the top dog?

00:18:57Nope.

00:18:58Nora Taylor is.

00:19:00Next time you see her, stay out of her way.

00:19:04And get her ten bucks back.

00:19:06Then he grabbed his backpack and walked out.

00:19:08Behind him, the blonde punk kicked the pudding head again.

00:19:13You took my future sister-in-law's money?

00:19:16And who said you could have the same hair color as me?

00:19:19I'll turn that pudding head of yours into pudding mush!

00:19:21The moment Mason pushed the door open, he found me standing there like a statue.

00:19:25There was too much information.

00:19:27My brain had completely crashed.

00:19:29Mason's eyes tightened.

00:19:30He grabbed my wrist.

00:19:31Let me explain.

00:19:37So, you're our school's bully?

00:19:39No.

00:19:40I never said I was.

00:19:42But I just saw you beating someone up.

00:19:44He harassed you first.

00:19:46If I didn't teach him a lesson, he'd keep thinking a girl saying no meant she was playing hard to

00:19:50get.

00:19:51I was just teaching him what no means.

00:19:53I took a step back.

00:19:54Mason immediately noticed my hand trembling in his.

00:19:57He let go like he'd been burned.

00:20:00Are you scared of me?

00:20:02Was I scared?

00:20:03I was terrified.

00:20:03He had just kicked that pudding head across the room.

00:20:06If he kicked me like that, I'd probably stick to the wall.

00:20:09Then I remembered slapping him outside school and all the forced studying.

00:20:13I'd even smacked him with my pointer more times than I could count.

00:20:16I was doomed.

00:20:17My knees went weak.

00:20:18I almost wanted to kneel again.

00:20:19Before I could, Mason caught me and gently led me to a bench nearby.

00:20:23He sat me down, then crouched in front of me.

00:20:25I never wanted to be the top dog.

00:20:30When I first transferred here, people kept picking fights with me.

00:20:33I had to fight back.

00:20:35Then somehow everyone started calling me that.

00:20:38Nora, I promise.

00:20:40From now on, I won't hit anyone again.

00:20:42Even if someone hits me first, I won't fight back.

00:20:44So, don't be scared of me, okay?

00:20:48Then, you're not mad that I hit you, smacked you with the pointer, and bullied you every day?

00:20:53You were doing it for my own good.

00:20:54Why would I be mad?

00:20:57Well, if someone hits you first, you can still fight back.

00:21:05You can hit me or smack me with the pointer just like before.

00:21:07Don't feel bad about it.

00:21:08That was when the blonde punk came out, dragging the pudding head with him.

00:21:12The battered pudding head froze.

00:21:13Holy shit.

00:21:14The top dog is slapping the former top dog again.

00:21:18The blonde punk covered the pudding head's mouth and dragged him away.

00:21:21They ran off faster than rabbits without looking back.

00:21:24By the next day, every kid around the nearby schools with red, orange, yellow, green, blue,

00:21:29or purple hair had dyed it back to their natural color.

00:21:31A new school legend had started going around.

00:21:33If you let your dyed hair grow out until you became a pudding head,

00:21:36you would mysteriously get beaten up.

00:21:38Before I knew it, we were in the final semester of senior year.

00:21:41My fourth study plan with Mason was still going strong.

00:21:44I was aiming for the top school while pushing Mason toward a good college.

00:21:47We both had bright futures ahead.

00:21:49One ordinary afternoon after studying, Mason and I had just left a store

00:21:53when I spotted my childhood friend, Owen, waiting outside school.

00:21:57You've loved my mom's cinnamon rolls since we were kids, so I brought you some.

00:22:04Who's this?

00:22:05Oh, he sits next to me in class.

00:22:09Mason gave Owen a polite nod.

00:22:11Owen looked back at me.

00:22:13So he's your study partner too, like me?

00:22:17I nodded.

00:22:18Something shifted in his eyes as he looked at me seriously.

00:22:22Nora, you're still aiming for the Ivies, right?

00:22:26Of course.

00:22:27Transferring here never changed that.

00:22:29He gave Mason a meaningful look, then smiled brightly at me.

00:22:32Good.

00:22:33Don't forget our promise.

00:22:34After we got back, Mason was in a bad mood.

00:22:36He spent the whole afternoon sleeping with his head down.

00:22:39I thought he might be sick, so I dropped a vitamin C tablet into a bottle of water and

00:22:44set it on his desk.

00:22:45He suddenly lifted his head and looked at the bottle.

00:22:47If you're not feeling well, drink this.

00:22:49It might help.

00:22:50What promise?

00:22:50Huh?

00:22:51The promise your childhood friend mentioned.

00:22:53What was it?

00:22:54Oh, we promised we'd get into the same ivy.

00:22:57You made that promise a long time ago?

00:22:58Yeah, but it's not really a big deal.

00:23:01Lots of people want to go there.

00:23:02He lowered his eyes and looked unusually down.

00:23:04I figured he regretted not taking school seriously sooner.

00:23:07It's okay.

00:23:08You've worked really hard.

00:23:09Even if you don't get into an ivy, you can still get into a great college.

00:23:13Then I won't be at the same school as you.

00:23:15So?

00:23:17But he will.

00:23:19I didn't understand what he meant.

00:23:21Mason put his head back down.

00:23:23Luckily, he was completely back to normal the next day.

00:23:26Actually, he studied even harder than before.

00:23:28I didn't even need my pointer anymore.

00:23:30He did everything on his own.

00:23:31Finally, college decision day arrived.

00:23:33I got into an ivy, just like I'd hoped.

00:23:35Mason got into a great university, too.

00:23:38I screamed with excitement.

00:23:39Then I turned and saw Mason sitting there, looking miserable.

00:23:42Why don't you look happy?

00:23:46You got into a great school.

00:23:48Mason, that's amazing.

00:23:52Besides you, no one cares how well I do or where I go to college.

00:23:56Mason's parents were divorced.

00:23:57Before long, they both remarried and had new kids.

00:24:00Only little Mason was left behind in the house they used to share.

00:24:03He had always been a good kid.

00:24:04He thought being good would make his parents love him more.

00:24:07But it didn't.

00:24:09Mason, you have to understand.

00:24:10Your little sister is still young.

00:24:12I don't have much time for you right now.

00:24:15Mason, things are different here now.

00:24:17It might be hard for you to adjust.

00:24:18You're better off staying at the old house.

00:24:20You'll have more freedom there.

00:24:22Little Mason never understood what he had done wrong.

00:24:24His parents sent him money every month, but never had time to visit.

00:24:30He lowered his head and gave a bitter smile.

00:24:32Even if you had a dog, you'd still worry about whether it had eaten or gotten sick.

00:24:36Mason used to get good grades.

00:24:38Then one day, during an argument, a classmate sneered.

00:24:41No wonder your parents don't want you.

00:24:42Mason beat him badly enough to get expelled.

00:24:44That was the first time in years both his parents showed up together.

00:24:47When I saw how disappointed they looked at me, I suddenly thought maybe this was what

00:24:51I was supposed to be.

00:24:52If people could throw me away that easily, maybe I really was trash.

00:24:56Then he transferred to this school.

00:24:58And from that day on, he never listened in class again.

00:25:01My eyes filled with tears.

00:25:02That was so sad.

00:25:03My parents were just busy with work.

00:25:05How did Mason end up having it so much worse?

00:25:07I walked over and hugged him gently.

00:25:09You're not trash.

00:25:10Mason stiffened.

00:25:11A few seconds later, he slowly wrapped his arms around my waist.

00:25:14I patted his back.

00:25:15I care when you do well, and I want you to keep doing better.

00:25:18Even if we don't go to the same college, maybe we can still be in the same city.

00:25:23Yeah.

00:25:24I'll go wherever you go.

00:25:26Okay.

00:25:27And if you're still sad, I could also be your...

00:25:30My what?

00:25:33I bit my lip and hesitated.

00:25:34Mason looked incredibly nervous.

00:25:36His chest rose and fell as he stared at me.

00:25:38Nora, tell me.

00:25:40What do you want to be to me?

00:25:42I could be your mom!

00:25:44Mason froze.

00:25:45Then he burst out laughing.

00:25:46His shoulders shook.

00:25:47I pouted beside him.

00:25:48Was it really that funny?

00:25:49People always said kids without moms had it hard.

00:25:52So if he needed one, I could reluctantly be his mom.

00:25:55After laughing for a while, Mason finally calmed down.

00:26:00Nora.

00:26:01Hmm?

00:26:03You once promised to grant me one wish.

00:26:05I think I'm ready to tell you what it is.

00:26:07My wish is also the secret I've been keeping from you.

00:26:10His voice was so serious that my heart suddenly started pounding.

00:26:13Nora, I like you.

00:26:15From the day we met, my wish has always been you.

00:26:19Only you.

00:26:22When Mason confessed to me, heat rushed straight to my face.

00:26:25I had spent months bossing him around, but looking at him now.

00:26:28At his trembling eyelashes and flushed cheeks, waiting so earnestly for an answer.

00:26:32I completely forgot how to breathe.

00:26:34I didn't know where to look and what to say.

00:26:36So I clamped both hands over my burning cheeks, squeaked out something completely unintelligible,

00:26:41and ran.

00:26:42The next morning, he showed up at my front door with my favorite snack.

00:26:46Don't run away next time.

00:26:50Take all the time you need.

00:26:52I'm not going anywhere.

00:26:54Summer flew by in a blur and college started.

00:26:57I started classes at my dream university.

00:26:59Mason went to the state college across the city.

00:27:01He was now captain of their varsity football team, a ruthless menace who played like he

00:27:06had zero mercy.

00:27:07To the world, Mason Cole was ruthless and unapproachable.

00:27:11To me, he was still the boy who drove across the city just to carry my backpack, buy me snacks,

00:27:15and quietly do his homework beside me.

00:27:17Except now, there was a problem.

00:27:19My university had its own golden boy, Garrett Vance.

00:27:22He was the captain of our football team, wealthy, arrogant, and convinced every girl on

00:27:27campus wanted him.

00:27:28And lately, his newest obsession happened to be me.

00:27:32On a sunny Friday afternoon, I was sitting on the library lawn reading through my note.

00:27:37A football suddenly landed right next to my sneaker.

00:27:42My bad, pretty girl.

00:27:43Garrett jogged over, scooped up the ball, and tucked it under one arm.

00:27:47He sat down on the grass right in front of me, flashing a bright, confident grin.

00:27:51I'm Garrett, quarterback.

00:27:54You must be the only student on this campus who's never been to one of my games.

00:27:59I turned a page without looking up, and I don't plan to start today.

00:28:05And I don't plan to start today.

00:28:08Could you sit somewhere else?

00:28:11You're blocking my sunlight.

00:28:14Playing hard to get?

00:28:15Garrett laughed and reached his hand straight across my lap, aiming for my notebook.

00:28:18Let me write my number down, before you pretend you don't want it.

00:28:22Before his fingers grazed the paper, a hand clamped down on Garrett's forearm.

00:28:26Mason towered over him, eyes pitch black and ice cold.

00:28:29Garrett yanked his arm back and rose to his feet, matching Mason's height, the easy charm

00:28:33vanishing into cold, dangerous focus.

00:28:38Cole, what's the matter?

00:28:40Get lost on the way to your own field?

00:28:44Don't touch your stuff.

00:28:45Two varsity captains, inches apart on the grass, the hostility between them was thick

00:28:49enough to choke on.

00:28:50I sighed, snapped my textbook shut, and lightly whacked Mason's arm with my pen.

00:28:55Mason, cut it out.

00:28:57We're right outside the library.

00:28:59You can't cause trouble here.

00:29:02I didn't cause trouble.

00:29:06I just brought your iced tea.

00:29:08Garrett stared from Mason to me, completely dumbfounded.

00:29:11Then, a slow, fascinated smirk broke across his face as he looked down at me.

00:29:16Never thought I'd see the day.

00:29:18Now you're getting really interesting, Nora.

00:29:20He glanced at Mason with pure competitive fire.

00:29:24The rivalry game is in two weeks.

00:29:26Cole, better make sure you're ready.

00:29:30Because when we win, Nora, you're letting me take you to dinner.

00:29:33In your dreams, Vance.

00:29:35Garrett gave a lazy salute and finally walked off.

00:29:40I poked the straw into my iced tea and took a sip, exactly how I liked it.

00:29:45Thanks.

00:29:49Does he bother you a lot?

00:29:52That was the first time.

00:29:56Sit down.

00:29:57My neck hurts looking up at you.

00:29:58Mason sat beside me.

00:30:00He stared at the grass, picking at a stray blade.

00:30:04You're not actually going to dinner with him, right?

00:30:09Why would I?

00:30:11I don't even know him, and I need to study.

00:30:13Mason let out a quiet breath.

00:30:14Then he looked at me, eyes suddenly hesitant.

00:30:18Are you coming to the rivalry game?

00:30:20Football isn't really my thing.

00:30:23Besides, I usually spend Saturdays at the library.

00:30:27It's the biggest game of the year.

00:30:29If you're not there.

00:30:30I stared at him for a second, totally helpless against that kid.

00:30:33Puppy, look.

00:30:34Fine.

00:30:34I'll go.

00:30:36But only if you finish your study assignments this week.

00:30:43I'll finish all of them.

00:30:48And I'm not letting him take you to dinner either.

00:30:54As the rivalry game drew closer, my campus completely lost its mind.

00:30:58Massive banners hung from every building, and the quad was a sea of navy and white.

00:31:02You couldn't walk ten feet without hearing someone.

00:31:05Chant fight songs.

00:31:07Or argue about tomorrow's matchup against our crosstown rivals.

00:31:10I was walking across campus with my books.

00:31:13Garrett fell into step beside me, twirling his car keys.

00:31:18Games tomorrow, Nora.

00:31:22The entire campus is going to be in the stadium.

00:31:25Got your ticket?

00:31:28Yes.

00:31:30Good.

00:31:31Just make sure you wear navy tomorrow.

00:31:34Gotta support our team, right?

00:31:35I just shrugged, quickened my pace, and slipped into the library without looking back.

00:31:40That night, my phone lit up with a video call.

00:31:42I answered and saw Mason lying in bed.

00:31:48You're really coming tomorrow, right?

00:31:50Sure.

00:31:50I'll be there.

00:31:51He smiled, then hesitated for a second, his ears turning slightly pink.

00:31:55Can you bring me water?

00:31:58Like you used to in high school?

00:32:00Way ahead of you.

00:32:01It's already in my bag.

00:32:03See you tomorrow.

00:32:07The stadium was split straight down the middle.

00:32:10A deafening clash between our warring sea of navy and an equally massive wall of red.

00:32:14I sat near the front, clutching my backpack with both hands.

00:32:18Our home team stormed out of the tunnel.

00:32:21Garrett waved to the roaring crowd, soaking in the adoration, like he was born for it.

00:32:25Then, the visiting team entered.

00:32:27Mason emerged at the front of his squad with a stone-cold expression.

00:32:30Before putting his helmet on, Mason glanced up at the homestands.

00:32:34The second his gaze caught mine, the icy ruthlessness on his face melted.

00:32:39A faint, boyish smile touched his lips.

00:32:42The whistle blew, and the rivalry game erupted into pure chaos.

00:32:47Garrett was infuriatingly good.

00:32:49Every time our team scored, he strutted across the turf, soaking in the deafening screams.

00:32:54But Mason was an absolute force of nature.

00:32:57Moving with terrifying speed and raw power, he tore through our defense like a freight train,

00:33:02drawing wild cheers from the visiting section, and stunned groans from our home bleachers.

00:33:06The game was neck and neck.

00:33:08With 30 seconds left on the clock, everyone in the stadium held their breath.

00:33:18The ball was snapped, Mason blasting through our defensive line.

00:33:21He shook off two tackles and plowed straight into the end zone just as the final horn blared.

00:33:26Touchdown.

00:33:27Half the stadium erupted into absolute bedlam, while our home bleachers sank into stunned silence.

00:33:32Mason's teammates swarmed him, roaring and slapping his pads, but he pushed past them.

00:33:37He unclipped his helmet, tossing it onto the grass.

00:33:39Sweat dripped from his dark hair, his chest heaving under heavy pads.

00:33:44Ignoring the chaos around him, he walked straight toward where I was sitting.

00:33:48Looking at his sweat-soaked hair and flushed face, my heart skipped a tiny beat, handing the bottle to him.

00:33:54Mason let out a quiet, breathless laugh, reaching up for the bottle with flushed ears.

00:33:59Before his fingers could touch the bottle, Garrett snatched the bottle right out of my grasp.

00:34:03He twisted off the cap and chugged half the bottle in one long hole.

00:34:06He wiped his mouth, his gaze dropping to Mason with a mocking, defiant smirk.

00:34:10Thanks for the water, Nora.

00:34:12Mason's expression was going dead cold.

00:34:15Mason grabbed Garrett by the front of his jersey and yanked him so hard their shoulder pads crashed together.

00:34:21Garrett dropped the half-empty bottle and shoved Mason back.

00:34:23Two varsity captains stood chest-to-chest, breathing hard, glaring at each other like they were ready to kill right

00:34:28in front of the entire stadium.

00:34:30Mason!

00:34:31Let go!

00:34:32Mason!

00:34:33Stop it!

00:34:33Let him go!

00:34:35Hearing my voice, Mason stiffened.

00:34:36He held Garrett's glare for another terrifying second before he finally shoved him back.

00:34:41I pulled out a small clean towel from my back.

00:34:44Stand still.

00:34:46You're getting sweat in your eyes.

00:34:48I carefully wiped the sweat from his forehead and cheek.

00:34:50Just like that, the fight completely drained out of him.

00:34:52Mason stood there, lowering his head slightly so I wouldn't have to stretch my arms.

00:34:57The terrifying glare in his eyes melted away and the tips of his ears flushed red.

00:35:02A few feet away, Garrett was watching us.

00:35:05His eyes met mine, dark with frustration and something dangerously stubborn.

00:35:09Without a word, he kicked the bottle aside and turned toward the tunnel.

00:35:14Mason was leaning against the metal bar, still breathing hard, staring at the tunnel.

00:35:18You almost started a riot.

00:35:21He started it.

00:35:23Go take a shower.

00:35:25You're completely soaked.

00:35:27You're not heading home yet, right?

00:35:30No.

00:35:31I'll wait by the team bus.

00:35:33Hurry up.

00:35:34The autumn wind was cold, and I was pulling my jacket tighter when a shadow fell over me.

00:35:38Mason had changed into a clean hoodie and sweatpants, his dark hair still damp from the shower.

00:35:42He caught both of my cold hands and wrapped his large, warm palms completely around them.

00:35:47My face immediately warmed up.

00:35:48Mason kept his eyes on our hands, warming my fingers.

00:35:51Don't let him take you anywhere.

00:35:54I wasn't planning on it.

00:35:57Go with me instead.

00:35:59What?

00:36:00Have dinner with me.

00:36:02A real date.

00:36:03Just you and me.

00:36:06Okay?

00:36:07Next Saturday.

00:36:09A breathless, relieved grin broke across his face.

00:36:12He squeezed my hands one last time before jogging onto his team bus.

00:36:15By Monday morning, however, my quiet college life was dead.

00:36:18The whole campus was buzzing about two things, our football team losing the rivalry game, and

00:36:23Garrett Vance almost throwing hands with a visiting captain over a girl.

00:36:27People stared at me in the hallway.

00:36:29Whispers followed me all the way to the library.

00:36:31I hid at a table in the quietest corner on the third floor, burying my nose in the book

00:36:35and praying everyone would forget.

00:36:37A paper cup landed right in front of my open book.

00:36:40Someone sat down across from me.

00:36:41I looked up.

00:36:42Garrett.

00:36:43He looked completely unfazed by Saturday's loss.

00:36:45That effortless, annoying smirk firmly back on his face.

00:36:48You're pretty hard to track down, Nora.

00:36:52I don't drink coffee.

00:36:55It's iced peach tea.

00:36:57I asked your roommate.

00:36:59You did what?

00:37:02I told you, Nora.

00:37:04I'm taking you to dinner.

00:37:07Leave my roommate out of this.

00:37:11And take your drink with you.

00:37:13I'm not interested, Garrett.

00:37:16Come on, Nora.

00:37:18Give a guy a chance.

00:37:19What does Cole have that I don't?

00:37:22A bad haircut?

00:37:23And anger management issues?

00:37:26What?

00:37:27He knows what no means.

00:37:30Which is clearly a foreign concept to you.

00:37:32I stood up to leave, but Garrett stepped into the narrow aisle, blocking my way out.

00:37:36He towered over me, trapping me between his broad frame and the study carrel.

00:37:39The library was dead silent, but several students at nearby tables had already looked up, watching every second.

00:37:46I'm not used to losing.

00:37:49Especially not to Cole.

00:37:50Saturday night.

00:37:51Let me take you out.

00:37:53One dinner.

00:37:54That's all I'm asking.

00:37:55I already have plans on Saturday.

00:37:57Move.

00:37:58Move.

00:37:58Just then, my phone buzzed.

00:38:00I pulled it out.

00:38:01The screen lit up, Mason.

00:38:03Before I could answer, Garrett snatched it straight out of my hand.

00:38:07Give that back.

00:38:08Garrett smirked.

00:38:08He answered the call and deliberately hit the speaker button.

00:38:11Nora?

00:38:12Where are you?

00:38:14I just got to your library.

00:38:16Sorry to disappoint, Cole.

00:38:17She's busy with me right now.

00:38:19Dead silence for one suffocating second.

00:38:21Then, Mason's voice came through the speaker, dangerously flat, devoid of any warmth.

00:38:26Aisle 14.

00:38:27Turn around, Vance.

00:38:28Garrett's smirk faltered.

00:38:29He slowly turned his head.

00:38:30Mason was already standing at the end of the bookshelf, his chest heaving.

00:38:33A paper takeout bag crumpled in his fist.

00:38:36His eyes, pitch black, fixated on Garrett's hand, still holding my phone.

00:38:40The air around us plummeted below freezing.

00:38:42Give her the phone.

00:38:44Now.

00:38:46Or what, Cole?

00:38:48You gonna tackle me in the quiet study zone?

00:38:52Mason didn't bother trading insults.

00:38:54He strode over, took my phone from Garrett, and handed it back to me.

00:38:57Garrett's smile tightened, but he lifted his chin defiantly.

00:39:00You're too late, Cole.

00:39:01I just asked Nora to dinner this Saturday.

00:39:04Mason's dickened.

00:39:05A sudden flash of vulnerability and dread as his gaze darted to me.

00:39:08I took Mason's tense, trembling hand in mine and locked eyes with Garrett.

00:39:12And I told you no, because I'm already going on a date with Mason.

00:39:16Garrett's smug smile vanished into thin air.

00:39:18Behind me, Mason, let out a sharp, ragged breath.

00:39:21His grip on my hand tightened.

00:39:22A blazing crimson blush rushed from his neck straight to the tips of his ears.

00:39:26Garrett's jaw tightened in humiliated fury.

00:39:28He scoffed, looking Mason up and down with bitter venom.

00:39:31A date with him?

00:39:32Good luck, Nora.

00:39:33Hope you enjoyed the backseat of his beat-up truck.

00:39:36Before either of us could respond, Garrett shoved his hands into his pockets and stalked away.

00:39:42On Saturday evening, I smoothed down my dress and stepped out of the dorm.

00:39:46Mason was already leaning against his black pickup.

00:39:48In his hands, he held a bouquet of flowers.

00:39:51The moment he saw me, he completely forgot how to breathe.

00:39:54A deep blush spread from his neck to the tips of his ears.

00:39:57You look really beautiful, Nora.

00:40:00You clean up pretty well yourself, Mason, flustered.

00:40:02He hurried around to open the passenger door.

00:40:04His hand gently hovered near my back to guide me inside.

00:40:07Twenty minutes later, we arrived at Luca's in intimate Italian trattoria downtown known for its candlelit courtyard garden.

00:40:13Mason approached the host's stand.

00:40:15Reservation under Cole.

00:40:17I'm very sorry, Mr. Cole.

00:40:19Your courtyard table is no longer available.

00:40:22A VIP guest bought out the entire courtyard ten minutes ago.

00:40:25I reserved that table.

00:40:26Told you, Cole.

00:40:28Money talks.

00:40:31You can squeeze in at the bar, Nora.

00:40:34Or you can join my table.

00:40:37I'd rather eat off the sidewalk.

00:40:39Mason stepped forward, his knuckles turning white.

00:40:42Since when does Luca's auction off tables to the highest bidder?

00:40:46An older man with neatly combed silver hair stepped out of the private dining room.

00:40:50The manager hurried over.

00:40:51He went ghost white.

00:40:52Mr. Cole, I was only trying to accommodate a VIP guest.

00:40:57Leave your keys on the desk.

00:40:59You're done here.

00:41:00My grandson reserved that courtyard table.

00:41:03That's where he'll be having dinner.

00:41:04The lobby fell dead silent.

00:41:06Garrett froze.

00:41:07His eyes snapped from the old man to Mason.

00:41:09The rival captain wasn't some broke scholarship athlete.

00:41:12He was a Cole.

00:41:13The Coles owned half the city's skyline.

00:41:15And the Vances owned the rest.

00:41:16And suddenly, the playing field was dead even.

00:41:20Henry Cole's grandson.

00:41:22Guess you've got quite the poker face, Cole.

00:41:25I don't need my family name to beat you, Vance.

00:41:28Good.

00:41:29That means when she chooses me, Cole, you can't blame it on my wallet.

00:41:33Enjoy your dinner, Nora.

00:41:34Garrett gave me a lazy salute, then turned and strolled out of the restaurant.

00:41:38The moment he was gone, Henry looked over at me with a warm smile.

00:41:41So you're Nora.

00:41:43I've never seen this boy voluntarily put on a press shirt.

00:41:46You must be the one keeping him in line.

00:41:49Grandpa, stop.

00:41:50Mason choked out, hastily grabbing my hand and dragging me toward the terrace in pure mortification.

00:41:55Mason pulled out my chair.

00:41:57I sat down, crossed my arms, and gave him a mock glare.

00:42:00Mason sat across from me.

00:42:01He took one look at me.

00:42:02His face went pale.

00:42:04So, Henry Cole's grandson.

00:42:07You kept that pretty quiet, didn't you?

00:42:11Nora, I swear, I didn't hide it on purpose.

00:42:16When my parents divorced, my dad kicked me out.

00:42:19And lied to my grandfather that I was gone.

00:42:22He only managed to track me down a couple of weeks ago.

00:42:25I just wanted to take you on an honest dinner.

00:42:28Please don't be mad at me.

00:42:33You're laughing?

00:42:34I'm not mad, you idiot.

00:42:38I was messing with you.

00:42:39Mason stared at me for three seconds.

00:42:41Then he buried his burning face in both hands, letting out a long breath of relief.

00:42:46Stop doing that.

00:42:48My heart almost stopped beating.

00:42:50Serves you right for letting me stress over your budget all week.

00:42:53Mason smiled, his warm fingers gently intertwining with mine.

00:42:56Mason, you look beautiful tonight, Nora.

00:42:59Really.

00:43:00My own face heated up instantly.

00:43:03Mason cleared his throat, his face just as flushed as mine.

00:43:06Then he pulled out a velvet box and slid it toward me.

00:43:10I got you something.

00:43:11I bought it with my own savings.

00:43:14Not from anyone else.

00:43:15My breath caught.

00:43:16I opened the box.

00:43:17Nestled inside was a delicate necklace.

00:43:20Mason.

00:43:23It's beautiful.

00:43:25Do you like it?

00:43:28I can put it on for you.

00:43:31If you want.

00:43:33Please.

00:43:34Mason stood up, stepping quietly behind my chair.

00:43:36His broad frame blocked the autumn breeze, carrying the faint, clean scent of cedar.

00:43:40His fingers gently brushed against the bare skin of my nape as he worked the tiny clasp.

00:43:45A quiet shiver ran straight down my spine.

00:43:47For one breathless, electric second, his fingers lingered against my skin before he slowly stepped back.

00:43:53The cool chain settled right against the hollow of my collarbone.

00:43:56When Mason sat back down, his ears were burning bright crimson,

00:43:59but the relieved grin on his face was the softest thing I had ever seen.

00:44:03For the rest of the night, everything was effortless.

00:44:06When Mason drove me back, he walked me all the way to my dorm doors,

00:44:10lingering in the autumn chill like he couldn't bear to let go.

00:44:12Up in my room, my fingers lingered on the delicate pendant.

00:44:15I went to sleep thinking things were finally falling into place.

00:44:18I had no idea Garrett was about to turn my entire campus upside down.

00:44:22Monday morning, I walked into my lecture hall and took my usual quiet seat.

00:44:26Varsity jacket landed casually on the desk beside me.

00:44:29Garrett slid into the empty seat, flashing a bright, effortless grin.

00:44:33He slid a cold paper cup, fresh iced peach tea.

00:44:36Morning, Nora.

00:44:37He drawled, leaning his chin on his hand, looking at me with total unhurried focus.

00:44:41The lecture hall fell dead silent.

00:44:43Dozens of students turned around in their seats, staring in disbelief.

00:44:49You don't take this class.

00:44:53Dropped my elective and added this one 20 minutes ago.

00:44:57Told you, Nora.

00:44:59Air game now.

00:45:00I don't give up easy.

00:45:01He didn't just pursue me.

00:45:03From that day on, he turned the entire university into his personal circus.

00:45:09On Tuesday, he trailed me across the crowded quad carrying my heavy stack of binders.

00:45:14When a group of varsity cheerleaders called him over, he didn't even turn his head.

00:45:18On Wednesday, he opened a massive tab at the quad's coffee cart for the entire morning.

00:45:22Every single cup came with a custom sticker, courtesy of Garrett Vance.

00:45:26Tell Nora Taylor to say yes.

00:45:27By Thursday, Garrett parked his luxury car right outside my dorm building.

00:45:31He popped the trunk, revealing an extravagant floral display overflowing with hundreds of

00:45:36fresh flowers.

00:45:37Stretched across the back of the car was a bold sign, just say yes, Nora Garrett.

00:45:40The campus gossip boards were flooded with videos.

00:45:43My phone buzzed constantly with screenshots.

00:45:45Garrett would just lean against his luxury car, sunglasses on, flashing that infuriatingly

00:45:49confident grin.

00:45:50And on Friday afternoon, the storm finally hit.

00:45:53I was putting my books away when a manicured hand slammed flat against my locker door.

00:45:57The cheerleading captain, Brooke Evans, stood before me.

00:46:01You've had your fun playing the innocent book world, Nora.

00:46:04Now step away from my man before I make you regret it.

00:46:11If Garrett is your man, why are you begging me to leave him alone?

00:46:15Go tell him to stop.

00:46:17Several passing students stopped in the hallway, pulling out their phones.

00:46:20Brooke's face flushed crimson.

00:46:22She lunged toward me.

00:46:23A hand clamped around Brooke's wrist.

00:46:25Garrett stepped between us, cutting off her view of me.

00:46:28His gaze was ice cold.

00:46:31Take your hands off.

00:46:35Garrett!

00:46:36She's humiliating me in front of everyone!

00:46:38You're embarrassing yourself.

00:46:39I don't have girlfriends.

00:46:41You were a hookup after a couple of frat parties, just like everyone else.

00:46:46Stop acting like we were ever a thing.

00:46:48The hallway erupted in shocked gas.

00:46:50Brooke went ghost, white.

00:46:51Tears of pure humiliation spilled down her cheek.

00:46:54Then she tore her wrist free and backed away, disappearing into the crowd.

00:46:58You're welcome, by the way.

00:47:00Field is completely clear now.

00:47:01You can thank me over dinner tonight.

00:47:06You think you did me a favor?

00:47:10You caused this, Garrett.

00:47:13You don't actually care about me.

00:47:15I'm just a trophy for you to wave in Mason's face.

00:47:18The last thing I need is your circus.

00:47:20Leave me alone.

00:47:21Pushed past him and walked away.

00:47:23That night, I was working the late shift of my work.

00:47:26Study job in the campus library's basement archive.

00:47:28Suddenly, something popped loudly down the hall.

00:47:30The entire basement plunged into pitch, black darkness.

00:47:33Then came the smell, sharp, acrid, and choking.

00:47:36I pulled my collar over my nose, coughing violently.

00:47:39The smoke alarms began to shriek.

00:47:41Panic spiked through my chest.

00:47:43I turned on my phone flashlight and rushed toward the exit.

00:47:46The door wouldn't open.

00:47:47Someone had locked it from the outside.

00:47:49I glanced at my screen.

00:47:50No service.

00:47:51Crossing the quad, Mason had just parked his truck.

00:47:53He grabbed the bag of warm pastries, heading toward the building to meet me.

00:47:57Meanwhile, Garrett sat silently in the crowded office football house, my words replaying in his head.

00:48:02Just a few feet away, Brooke took a sip of her drink, giggling smugly to her friends.

00:48:07Garrett frowned, catching her spiteful tone over the music.

00:48:11I locked that little nerd in the archive room.

00:48:15Let her freeze in the dark all night.

00:48:18Before Garrett could react, several phones buzzed violently at once.

00:48:22Wait, did you guys get that emergency alert?

00:48:27Holy shit.

00:48:28Look at the campus forum.

00:48:30Someone just posted a video.

00:48:32There's thick black smoke pouring out of the library basement.

00:48:34Brooke's laughter choked in her throat.

00:48:36Her face went pale.

00:48:37The words hit Garrett.

00:48:39Basement archives.

00:48:40Locked from the outside, the cup slipped from his frozen fingers.

00:48:43He shoved through the crowd and bolted out the door.

00:48:45Back in the basement, the heat was becoming unbearable.

00:48:48My vision began to blur as the toxic smoke filled my lungs.

00:48:51My body slumping against the scorched floor.

00:48:53Bang.

00:48:53A violent, thunderous impact rattled the heavy iron door from the outside.

00:48:57Anse twice.

00:48:58With a deafening groan of warped metal, the door burst open.

00:49:01Heavy.

00:49:02Frantic footsteps surged through the haze.

00:49:04Before I slipped completely under, a pair of powerful arms hooked beneath my back and

00:49:08knees, violently scooping me off the floor and tight against a broad chest.

00:49:13He held me, trembling with pure terror, running at a reckless, frantic sprint.

00:49:17The moment he burst outside, the freezing air hit my face.

00:49:20I gasped awake, coughing violently.

00:49:22And that was when I looked up, staring down at me with breathless agony was Mason.

00:49:26Nora!

00:49:27Nora, look at me!

00:49:28Pleaded, his voice cracking violently.

00:49:30I'm here.

00:49:30You're safe.

00:49:32I've got you.

00:49:32I clutched his jacket with trembling hands, baring my face against his neck.

00:49:36Tires screeched as a sports car slammed to a stop.

00:49:39Garrett threw the door open and bolted across the lawn.

00:49:41Nora!

00:49:42He stumbled to a stop in front of us, chest heaving.

00:49:45The second he saw I was alive, he let out a shaky breath of relief.

00:49:48Paramedics rushed over, lifting me onto the gurney and securing an oxygen mask over my face.

00:49:53Mason refused to let go of my hand, walking alongside them into the flashing emergency

00:49:58lights.

00:49:58Garrett moved, stepping up to the open doors.

00:50:01Mason instantly turned, his arm barring the entrance, his soot-streaked face lethal.

00:50:05Back off, Vance.

00:50:08Garrett didn't look at Mason.

00:50:10He looked down at me on the gurney.

00:50:11Then his eyes flicked to the paramedic.

00:50:14Which hospital?

00:50:19Don't you dare follow this truck!

00:50:21Garrett looked Mason dead in the eye.

00:50:23No smirk.

00:50:24No sarcasm.

00:50:25Just a cold, unshakable intensity.

00:50:27Try and stop me.

00:50:29Rest, Nora.

00:50:30I'll be in the waiting room.

00:50:32The paramedic pulled the doors shut, cutting him off.

00:50:34The siren kicked on, the ambulance jolting forward, and speeding across the campus into

00:50:38the night.

00:50:39Inside, Mason collapsed onto the bench, holding my hand against his chest, bowing his head

00:50:43as his shoulders shuddered with exhausted relief.

00:50:45I squeezed his fingers back, softly tapping the back of his hand to calm him down.

00:50:49And through the window, I saw Garrett pull out right behind our flashing lights.

00:50:53He wasn't playing a game anymore.

00:50:56I woke up the next morning in a private hospital suite, only a faint scratchiness in my throat.

00:51:01Aside from that, I felt surprisingly fine.

00:51:03What wasn't fine, however, was the suffocating atmosphere in the room.

00:51:07To my right, Mason was sitting on the edge of my bed, carving an apple into the shape

00:51:11of a bunny.

00:51:12To my left stood Garrett, leaning against the window frame, arms crossed over his chest.

00:51:16You're finally awake.

00:51:18The doctor checked your lungs an hour ago.

00:51:20No permanent damage from the smoke.

00:51:22I already had my family's foundation clear the entire hospital bill.

00:51:25Mason's jaw ticked, his voice cold.

00:51:28Take your flowers and your charity vans, and get the hell out of her room.

00:51:33I'm not going anywhere, Cole.

00:51:35I told her I'd be in the waiting room, and I'm seeing this through.

00:51:38Two massive, six-foot-two football captains, radiating pure hostility, inching toward each

00:51:43other like two territorial predators ready to tear the room apart.

00:51:46I closed my eyes, let out a long breath, and sat up.

00:51:49Could both of you please shut up?

00:51:53Nora, does your chest hurt?

00:51:55Do you want some water?

00:51:58I'm fine, Mason.

00:52:03And Garrett, take all those flowers with you.

00:52:05They're blocking the window, and I have reading to do.

00:52:08Before Garrett could answer, my phone buzzed on the bedside table.

00:52:11It was an urgent email notification from the university's Athletic Academic Center,

00:52:16followed by an alert from the NCAA board.

00:52:18I tapped the screen, skimmed the text, and slowly blinked.

00:52:22Well, this is interesting.

00:52:25What is it?

00:52:26Two things.

00:52:28First, the selection committee just officially announced the roster for the All-American

00:52:32Freshman Spring Showcase.

00:52:34Mason and Garrett's eyes locked for a fraction of a second.

00:52:37You're both on the Metro All-Star roster.

00:52:39Garrett is starting quarterback.

00:52:41Mason is starting running back.

00:52:43Congratulations, boys.

00:52:45You're on the exact same offense.

00:52:47Garrett grimaced like he'd swallowed a lemon.

00:52:49Mason looked like he wanted to jump out the window.

00:52:53I'd rather break my own collarbone than hand the ball to him.

00:52:57Don't worry, Cole.

00:52:58I wouldn't throw to you if you were the last man on earth.

00:53:01Oh, you two won't have to worry about handing off the ball at all.

00:53:04Because here's the second email.

00:53:06NC Day academic eligibility warnings.

00:53:08Both of their faces stiffened.

00:53:09Due to missed lectures, unsubmitted papers, and failing mid-semester valuations,

00:53:15Garrett Vance and Mason Cole have both been placed on academic probation for the mandatory

00:53:19general education core class, Philosophical Ethics.

00:53:21Dead silence blanketed the VIP room.

00:53:23Under the NC Dele's strict no pass, no play rule, neither of you is allowed to set foot on

00:53:28that field for the Spring Showcase.

00:53:29Unless your ethics greed hits a solid B plus within the next month.

00:53:33I leaned back against the hospital pillows crossing my arms.

00:53:36And guess who the athletic department just assigned as your mandatory peer tutor?

00:53:40Mason looked at me.

00:53:41Garrett looked at Mason.

00:53:42They went completely pale.

00:53:45By Monday afternoon, I was officially cleared to leave the hospital and back on campus.

00:53:50And I got a lanyard from the athletic department, student-athlete-academic peer tutor,

00:53:54which brought me straight to the Metro All-Star Practice Facility.

00:53:57Bleachers were packed with local sports reporters and NFL scouts.

00:54:00On the turf, two dozen of the best freshmen in the state were running drills.

00:54:04I form!

00:54:0524 dig on two!

00:54:07Ready, break!

00:54:10Mason stood in the backfield, kicking up turf with his cleat.

00:54:13The ball was snapped.

00:54:14Garrett pivoted, but deliberately rammed the leather ball with full force right into Mason's ribs.

00:54:19Take it, Cole.

00:54:24Put some touch on it, Vance.

00:54:26Or do your soft country club hands only know how to throw tantrums?

00:54:29Run the play again!

00:54:30State formation!

00:54:31Go!

00:54:32The whistle blew.

00:54:33A massive defensive lineman came barreling straight at Garrett's blindside.

00:54:37Mason calmly took one step to the left, folded his arms, and watched.

00:54:45Garrett rolled over, spitting out bits of rubber turf and grass.

00:54:50You didn't block him!

00:54:53He almost broke my throwing shoulder!

00:54:57My bad.

00:54:59My foot slipped.

00:55:00You son of a fuck!

00:55:03I lowered the whistle, puffing out my cheeks to look as fierce as possible, and stomped right onto the grass.

00:55:09Both of you, over here.

00:55:10The head coach stared at me, but didn't say a word.

00:55:13He knew NCAA eligibility was on the line.

00:55:16Mason and Garrett unclipped their helmets and stalked over.

00:55:18Nora, you shoved me first.

00:55:21I was just standing there.

00:55:22You stepped aside on purpose!

00:55:25Nora, he let that guy flatten me.

00:55:27Look at my jersey.

00:55:28It's covered in mud.

00:55:30I don't care who shoved who!

00:55:36You're on academic probation.

00:55:38If you spend practice fighting instead of working, that tells me you have way too much free energy.

00:55:46Wait, what?

00:55:48Garrett, for deliberately jamming that ball into your teammate's stomach, you owe me a 500-word reflection on Aristotle's ethics

00:55:55of cooperation.

00:55:58A reflection paper?

00:56:00Nora, we're in the middle of football practice!

00:56:02Make it 700 words if you want to keep arguing.

00:56:05I said, not budging an inch.

00:56:08Don't think you're off the hook.

00:56:09You saw that defender coming and stepped aside on purpose.

00:56:13Nora, Aristotle is too hard.

00:56:15My hand cramps when I write long epsays.

00:56:19Can't I just do push-ups instead?

00:56:21No push-ups.

00:56:22Push-ups don't save your grades.

00:56:251,000 words on Kant's moral duty for you.

00:56:28And if you're late to study hall, you're sitting by yourself in the hallway.

00:56:33Fine.

00:56:34But you have to help me with the first paragraph.

00:56:36Of course I will.

00:56:38That's what a tutor does.

00:56:39Unbelievable.

00:56:41He actually listens to you.

00:56:44Less talking, Vance!

00:56:47Now stop bickering and play properly.

00:56:49If I see either of you causing trouble again, both of your essays double.

00:56:57Fine.

00:56:57Just please stop blowing that whistle.

00:57:0030 seconds later they tried again and Ashley ran the play right.

00:57:03I let out a long breath.

00:57:04Before I could sit down, the head coach walked over to me.

00:57:07I quickly stood up straight.

00:57:08Coach Martinez, I'm so sorry for interrupting your drill, sir.

00:57:12I didn't mean to disrupt practice, but the academic center said if their grades don't improve by Friday...

00:57:18Don't apologize, kid.

00:57:21I've been trying to get those two hardheads to hand off a ball without throwing hands for three weeks.

00:57:26Whatever you're doing, Taylor, keep doing it.

00:57:29Because if they don't pass their classes, you don't have a season.

00:57:35Yes, sir.

00:57:37When I opened the study room door, I was surprised to find them both already there.

00:57:41When Mason saw me walk in, his eyes lit up.

00:57:44He slid an empty chair out for me.

00:57:46Thanks.

00:57:46Setting down my bag.

00:57:47I unzipped it, pulling out our thick textbook, along with three highlighters and a pack of index cards.

00:57:52First, homework check. Essays.

00:57:55Hand them over.

00:57:56Garrett scoffed lightly, sliding a single printed sheet across the table.

00:57:59500 words on Aristotle?

00:58:00Took me 20 minutes.

00:58:03I glanced over his printout.

00:58:05It was full of flashy, empty filler words that said almost nothing.

00:58:08Then Mason slid his printout over.

00:58:10His paper was impeccably prepared.

00:58:12And at the bottom of the page, he had doodled a smiley face along with a handwritten note.

00:58:16Did I pass?

00:58:16His ears turned slightly pink as he waited for my reaction.

00:58:20Good job, Mason.

00:58:22Your argument on Kant is actually really solid.

00:58:27And you, Garrett?

00:58:29Use the word further normer six times in one paragraph to pad your word count.

00:58:37You're giving him an A and me a C plus?

00:58:40Nora, Cole's paper reads like it was written by a caveman.

00:58:43At least the caveman didn't have to pad his word count, Vance.

00:58:46Shut up, Cole.

00:58:49Stop bickering.

00:58:51Tonight we're drilling.

00:58:54Utilitarianism versus dayography.

00:58:57John Stuart Mill's greatest happiness principle states that the morally right action is the one

00:59:04that produces the greatest amount of pleasure and the least amount of pain for the greatest number of people.

00:59:10Garrett, apply this to a real world scenario.

00:59:13Garrett leaned his forearms against the table, his eyes locking straight onto mine.

00:59:17Easy.

00:59:18Say a girl is stuck around a violent, moody guy who doesn't know how to treat her.

00:59:22And say another guy, someone smarter, richer, and way better looking, steps in to take her away.

00:59:28Mason's hand went completely still on the desk.

00:59:32Garrett was looking dead at me.

00:59:33The girl gets treated like royalty, which brings massive happiness.

00:59:38The new guy is thrilled, which is even more happiness.

00:59:42Only one grumpy loser suffers.

00:59:45Net positive happiness for the majority.

00:59:48Therefore, according to Mill, stealing her is a moral obligation.

00:59:53And according to Immanuel Kott's moral law,

00:59:55treating another person as a trophy or a means to satisfy your pathetic ego

01:00:00is a fundamental violation of human dignity.

01:00:03And in the real world, Vance, touching what isn't yours gets your jaw broken.

01:00:07The air in the study room plummeted below freezing,

01:00:10Garrett's jaw clenching as they glared at each other across the table.

01:00:13I blinked.

01:00:14Then, I picked up my pen and tapped my notebook.

01:00:16Garrett, that is a textbook misinterpretation of act-euterianism.

01:00:20You completely ignored rule-euterianism.

01:00:23If everyone went around stealing people based on arbitrary calculations,

01:00:26society would collapse into complete chaos.

01:00:29F for that answer.

01:00:30What?

01:00:32On the other hand, Mason, that was incredible.

01:00:37Me?

01:00:40Yes.

01:00:41You applied Kant's formula of humanity perfectly.

01:00:44You recognized that rational beings must never be treated merely as a means to an end.

01:00:51That was textbook perfect.

01:00:53See?

01:00:54I told you that you were smart.

01:00:55You just have to apply yourself.

01:00:57Culler rushed all the way up his neck to the tips of his ears.

01:00:59He slumped back in his chair, ducking his head to hide a giddy, helpless smile.

01:01:03Across the table, Garrett stared at us like he was losing his mind.

01:01:07You're... you're actually grading our hypothetical scenario?

01:01:11Nora, did you not hear a single word either of us just said?

01:01:14I heard every word.

01:01:15And Mason's philosophical foundation was far superior.

01:01:19Now turn to chapter four, ethical egoism and the suppression of primal impulses.

01:01:24Let's see if you can catch up, Vance.

01:01:25Mason picked up a fresh pen and gave Garrett a smug, victorious little smirk.

01:01:29Garrett groaned, burying his face in his hands.

01:01:33By 9.30, Garrett finally groaned, throwing his pen onto the table and rubbing his eyes.

01:01:38I can't read another word about dead Greek philosophers.

01:01:43My brain is completely fried.

01:01:45I'm running downstairs to the cafe for caffeine.

01:01:49Nora, let me guess.

01:01:49Iced peach tea?

01:01:52I'm fine, Garrett.

01:01:53You don't have to...

01:01:53Too late.

01:01:54I'm getting it anyway.

01:01:55Garrett flashed an easy smirk before slipping out the glass door.

01:01:58Mason rested his head flat against the desk and turned sideways to face me.

01:02:01Nora, my head hurts.

01:02:05Did you take a hit to the helmet during practice?

01:02:07Should I call the team trainer for a concussion protocol?

01:02:11No, it's the reading.

01:02:13All the concepts are spinning around in my head.

01:02:16He hesitated for a second.

01:02:17Then, very slowly, his hand slid across the desk toward mine.

01:02:20His pinky hooked around mine, giving it a gentle squeeze.

01:02:23Can you just read the chapter summary for me?

01:02:26Your voice makes it way easier to remember.

01:02:30My heart softened in an instant.

01:02:32You've been pushing yourself too hard today.

01:02:33I reached out with my other hand and lightly brushed a stray lock of hair off his

01:02:37forehead.

01:02:37Mason's entire body went rigid.

01:02:39Right before my eyes, a blazing crimson blush rushed from his neck, flooding all the way to

01:02:44the tips of his ears.

01:02:45He quickly buried his burning face into the crook of his elbow on the desk, but his fingers

01:02:49tightened around my pinky.

01:02:50Don't look at me.

01:02:52I'm just really tired.

01:02:54I couldn't help but smile.

01:02:55He was still the exact same shy, adorable boy in high school.

01:02:58I turned back to the textbook, clearing my throat to read.

01:03:01Okay, section three, the moral law.

01:03:03Got the peach tea, Nora.

01:03:05Extra ice, just like, what in the absolute hell?

01:03:08Are you seriously cuddling during mandatory study hall?

01:03:13The next morning, I sat in the seminar room for philosophical ethic.

01:03:16To my right sat Garrett Vance.

01:03:20The case study on corporate whistleblowing.

01:03:22It's not just a clash between loyalty and honesty.

01:03:28It's an institutional failure of moral leadership under Aristotian virtue theory.

01:03:33Well reasoned, Mr. Vance.

01:03:35An insightful perspective.

01:03:37I turned my head, staring at Garrett in genuine surprise.

01:03:40Catching my look, Garrett leaned back in his chair, flashing a quiet, self-assured smile.

01:03:44What? Surprised I have a brain, Nora?

01:03:47I told you, when something actually matters to me, I don't mess around.

01:03:50After class, we walked out into the sunlit courtyard.

01:03:53Garrett casually took my heavy textbook, matching my pace as we headed to the stone tables under the oak trees.

01:03:58He slid a nice peach tea across to me, pulling out his notes.

01:04:01He was witty, fast, and surprisingly fun to study with.

01:04:05You're actually a surprisingly good study partner, Garrett.

01:04:10Garrett leaned his chin on one hand, smiling lazily.

01:04:13Told you, give me a chance, and I'll prove I'm a lot better than that caveman across town.

01:04:18A black pickup truck pulled up right along the curb by the terrace.

01:04:21Mason stepped out.

01:04:22The second he saw Garrett leaning close to me, his expression hardened.

01:04:25He strode across the grass, straight up to our table.

01:04:28Garrett leaned back, flashing a lazy, mocking smirk.

01:04:31Nicole, did you take a wrong turn on the highway?

01:04:34Mason didn't say a single word.

01:04:35He reached down and shoved Garrett's arm right off the back of my chair.

01:04:38Garrett sat up, shaking out his shoulder with a cold, mocking scoff.

01:04:41Or did seeing us together make you that mad?

01:04:44Mason didn't even look at him.

01:04:45He pulled up an empty chair, dropped his bag on the grass, and sat down right beside me.

01:04:50Garrett tapped the stone table with his pen, scoffing with cold amusement.

01:04:53Did you seriously drive all the way across the city?

01:04:56Just to be a third wheel, Cole?

01:04:59Find your own table.

01:05:04Mason's jaw ticked, but he didn't waste a single breath on me.

01:05:07He dragged his chair right up against mine, sat down, and dropped his head straight onto my shoulder.

01:05:11I instantly froze.

01:05:13Mason, what are you doing?

01:05:15Sit up. People are staring.

01:05:17I can't. My legs are dead.

01:05:22Tell him to go away, Nora. He's loud, and he's giving me a headache.

01:05:25Across the table, Garrett stared at Mason in pure, horrified disbelief.

01:05:29He threw his pen down, dragging both hands down his face with a look of utter disgust.

01:05:33Are you serious right now? Cole, stop acting like a damn puppy.

01:05:38I'm literally going to throw up.

01:05:40Mason just lifted his eyes, staring Garrett dead in the face.

01:05:43Then go throw up at your own table.

01:05:46On the day midterm grades were released, I was pacing back and forth outside the athletic

01:05:50academic center, my heart in my throat.

01:05:53Relax, Nora. I told you we had this.

01:05:55Garrett tapped his phone screen and turned it toward me with an easy, confident grin.

01:05:59On our university portal, his result was clear.

01:06:01Garrett Vance, midterm grade, 88%.

01:06:04Barrett chuckled, casually sliding his phone into his pocket.

01:06:07See? You're a great tutor.

01:06:09Before I could breathe a sigh of relief, another hand reached into my view.

01:06:13Mason held out his phone with the state college app open.

01:06:16Mason Cole, midterm grade, 91%.

01:06:19Nora, is 91 okay?

01:06:23An A-?

01:06:25Mason, I'm so proud of you!

01:06:27Mason ducked his head, a shy grin breaking across his handsome face as he rubbed the back of his neck.

01:06:32Beside us, Garrett's relaxed smile completely froze.

01:06:35Wait, you got a 91?

01:06:37I memorized every card you made.

01:06:43Unbelievable.

01:06:44The caveman got an A minus.

01:06:47Hey, don't call him a caveman.

01:06:50He worked really hard.

01:06:52You both passed.

01:06:54You're officially cleared for the showcase.

01:06:55Before Garrett could complain any further,

01:06:57Coach Martinez strode down the hall.

01:06:59Outstanding work, Taylor.

01:07:01You saved our offense.

01:07:02Now get your gear.

01:07:04Travel roster for the Florida showcase is finalized.

01:07:07Practice in 10.

01:07:07Now that the threat of suspension was gone, the dynamic in the hallway shifted instantly.

01:07:12Garrett pushed off the lockers, twirling his car keys around one finger.

01:07:15He stepped closer, flashing that familiar competitive smirk.

01:07:19So, Tudor, now that academic probation is off our backs, the real game starts.

01:07:24Mason stepped directly into Garrett's line of sight, completely blocking Garrett from me.

01:07:29The game was over before it started, Vance.

01:07:31We'll see about that, Cole.

01:07:33Campus outdoor movie night is tomorrow on the quad, and Nora is sitting with me.

01:07:39By Friday evening, the central lawn of our campus had turned into an outdoor theater.

01:07:43Hundreds of students had already claimed spots with picnic blankets,

01:07:47folding lawn chairs, and dorm pillows.

01:07:48After surviving the most stressful midterm week of my life,

01:07:51all I wanted was to sit on the grass, eat cheap popcorn, and turn my brain off for two hours.

01:07:56Over here, Nora!

01:07:57Garrett waved at me from the dead center of the lawn.

01:07:59He had clearly shown up an hour early to secure the best view on campus.

01:08:03Garrett flashed his easy smile, patting the blanket beside him.

01:08:06I told you I had it covered.

01:08:08Prime real estate, front and center.

01:08:11Thanks, Garrett.

01:08:12You really went all out.

01:08:13Before I could sit down, a tall shadow fell across our blanket.

01:08:16I looked up.

01:08:17Mason stood there, carrying a thick rolled up blanket under one arm.

01:08:20Garrett immediately looked annoyed.

01:08:22Don't you have your own campus, Cole?

01:08:23Did you seriously drive across the city just to crash our school's movie night?

01:08:30The state countage doesn't have Nora.

01:08:32Garrett rolled his eyes.

01:08:33Mason unrolled his blanket, laying it down right beside Garrett's perfectly flush against the edge.

01:08:38Then, Mason sat down cross-legged on the grass, right on my other side.

01:08:42The lights on the quad clicked off, and the opening credits rolled across the giant screen.

01:08:46And there I was sandwiched directly between two varsity captains,

01:08:49with less than three inches of space on either side.

01:08:52Garrett immediately slid his popcorn tub into my lap, leaning in close so his shoulder brushed mine.

01:08:57Extra butter.

01:08:59Just the way you like it.

01:09:01On my other side, Mason quietly reached into his pocket.

01:09:04He placed a familiar little bag of chocolate-covered pretzels directly on top of my knees.

01:09:09I know you hate butter on your fingers when you're watching a screen.

01:09:11Every time I reached down for a snack, my knuckles brushed against either Garrett's fingers or Mason's warm palm.

01:09:17I could feel both of their intense gazes locked onto the side of my face in the flickering projector light.

01:09:23The night air cooled down fast, and a sudden gust of wind swept across the open lawn.

01:09:28I shivered slightly, rubbing my bare arms.

01:09:30Garrett noticed first.

01:09:31Cold?

01:09:34Here, take my-

01:09:35In one smooth, silent motion, Mason pulled his team hoodie straight over his head.

01:09:40He leaned over and dropped the giant hoodie right down over my head and shoulders.

01:09:43I was completely swallowed alive by thick, heavy warmth.

01:09:46Then Mason leaned in and gently pulled the hood up over my messy hair.

01:09:50His warm knuckles lightly grazed the skin of my cheek, sending a sudden electric shiver straight down my spine.

01:09:55Mason looked down at me, his eyes soft and impossibly gentle.

01:10:00Better.

01:10:01Beside us, Garrett froze with his jacket half-lifted in midair.

01:10:04He stared at me, completely buried inside Mason's oversized hoodie,

01:10:07then looked at Mason sitting there in a t-shirt in the freezing wind.

01:10:10Garrett's eye twitched with pure murderous frustration.

01:10:15Garrett had stepped away ten minutes ago, leaving just the two of us.

01:10:18On screen, the movie had reached its quiet romantic climax.

01:10:21Around us, hundreds of students sat in hushed silence, the lawn wrapped in cool night air.

01:10:26Inside Mason's massive hoodie, I was warm, almost too warm.

01:10:29My heart was beating so loud against my ribs, I was terrified he could hear it.

01:10:33Beside me, Mason shifted slightly on the blanket.

01:10:36His shoulder pressed against mine, his bare arm warmed despite the freezing wind.

01:10:39Slowly beneath the edge of the blanket, Mason's hand slid across the fabric.

01:10:43His fingers brushed my knuckles, hesitant and trembling slightly.

01:10:47When I didn't pull away, his fingers gently curled around mine, locking our hands together.

01:10:51His palm was burning hot.

01:10:52I held my breath, slowly turning my head to look at him.

01:10:55Mason was already looking at me.

01:10:57In the dim light of the projector, his eyes were intense and completely unguarded.

01:11:02Nora.

01:11:02He leaned in.

01:11:03Two inches.

01:11:04One inch.

01:11:05His warm breath brushed against my lip, smelling faintly of mint.

01:11:08My eyes fluttered shut, my entire body tingling with electric anticipation.

01:11:13A blinding phone flashlight beam hit Mason directly in the eyes.

01:11:17Enjoying the movie, Cole?

01:11:19Before either of us could move, Garrett's broad frame slid right between us,

01:11:23completely cutting off our space.

01:11:25He shoved a steaming paper cup straight into my frozen hands.

01:11:28The sweet, rich scent of melted chocolate, toasted marshmallows exploded into the cold air.

01:11:33Hot chocolate.

01:11:35Drink it before you freeze.

01:11:36I sat there frozen, my entire face burning.

01:11:39Mason slowly pulled back, his jaw clenched.

01:11:42His eyes were completely lethal as he glared at Garrett.

01:11:45Garrett leaned back on his hands, looking Mason dead in the eye with pure, arrogant triumph.

01:11:50I leave for 10 minutes to get her something warm because she was shivering.

01:11:54Didn't you try to make a move on my blanket?

01:11:58Your timing is terrible, Vance.

01:12:05My timing was a mech a bit, Cole.

01:12:07Try again next time.

01:12:10For the rest of the movie, I sat frozen between them, praying for the credits to roll.

01:12:14When the screen finally went black, I quickly tossed the empty paper cup into a trash bin and stretched my

01:12:19stiff legs.

01:12:19Well, that was fun.

01:12:21I'm heading back to my dorm.

01:12:23I'll drive you.

01:12:25My car is right behind the quad.

01:12:27Heated leather seats, you won't freeze on the way.

01:12:34My truck is closer.

01:12:35She's riding with me.

01:12:37My dorm is literally a three minute walk across the courtyard.

01:12:40I have two working legs.

01:12:42Nobody is driving me 300 feet.

01:12:44Neither of them listened.

01:12:45Neither of them was willing to leave the other alone with me, either.

01:12:48So the three of us ended up walking side by side across the campus in awkward, heavy silence.

01:12:52When we finally reached the front steps of my dorm building, I let out a breath in relief.

01:12:57Thanks for the hot chocolate, Garrett.

01:13:00And here's your hoodie, Mason.

01:13:01You still have to drive across town.

01:13:03You're going to freeze in just a t-shirt.

01:13:08Keep it.

01:13:09It smells like you now.

01:13:11Give it back to me tomorrow at the facility.

01:13:15Could you be any more transparent, Cole?

01:13:18Leaving your jacket with a girl is literally the oldest trick in the freshman playbook.

01:13:23Ignore him.

01:13:24Sleep warm, Nora.

01:13:27Get some rest, Nora.

01:13:29Tomorrow's the first full contact scrimmage.

01:13:32I'll pick you up at 10.

01:13:33I'm picking her up at 9.30.

01:13:35I'm taking the team shuttle at 9.45.

01:13:38Good night, both of you.

01:13:39The electronic lock clicked and I practically dove inside the glass doors.

01:13:43The moment I was out of earshot, they turned to face each other.

01:13:46No more puppy eyes.

01:13:47No more polite smirks.

01:13:48Two rivals, chest to chest in the dark, ready for war.

01:13:51I rubbed my throbbing temples, letting out a long, exhausted sigh.

01:13:54If those two idiots actually killed each other on my dorm steps tonight, at least I wouldn't

01:13:59have to tutor them tomorrow.

01:14:00see now.

01:14:00you

01:14:01you

I Tormented the Weakest Student, Unaware He Ruled the Campus (2026) - AI Full Drama

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