Steal His Innocence - Completed

Chapter 14: The Campus Scandal

ASHER'S POV

I knew this fake relationship would complicate things. I just didn't expect it to explode this fast.

When Prof. Cruz called for attention that afternoon, I was half-focused on my notes, half-replaying the way Viana clung to my arm earlier in the hallway. I told myself it was just part of the plan. Just an act. Something strategic.

Then the door opened.

And strategy flew out the window.

Viana walked in like she had rehearsed the timing. Confident steps. Chin slightly raised. She wasn't supposed to be in this class—I memorized the block list at the start of the semester. But there she was, standing under the fluorescent lights like she owned them.

And she looked different.

Yesterday at my condo, she was in oversized clothes, hair messy from sleep, barefaced and annoyingly comfortable. Today she was polished—soft curls framing her face, subtle makeup, fitted outfit that turned heads without trying too hard. She wasn't loud yet. She was composed.

She was... stunning.

"Buti na lang single ako!" Mark shouted from the back.

The class burst into laughter.

I didn't.

I felt irritation spike unexpectedly. It was irrational. I had no right to be annoyed. She wasn't mine. This was fake. Still, the way the guys' eyes followed her made my jaw tighten.

"You're very pretty, Viana," One of the girl student said. "So, is it true? The rumors about you having a boyfriend?"

Of all students, it had to be her. Part of Journalism. Campus news spreads through their club like wildfire.

Viana smiled sweetly. "Yes."

My grip on my pen tightened.

She locked eyes with me.

Then she winked.

I almost choked.

"Ay, sayang!" Jake said loudly, leaning back in his chair, looking her up and down without shame.

The room laughed again.

I don't know why that bothered me so much. I've never cared about Jake's comments before. But hearing him react to her like that felt... unpleasant.

"Actually," Viana continued, voice bright and playful, "he's right here."

Don't.

Please don't.

"Who is he?" Mary leaned forward eagerly.

Viana turned fully toward me, lips curving slowly. I knew that look. It meant trouble.

"Hi! Babe Asher!" she said while waving and smiling.

Silence.

Then chaos.

Heat crept up my neck as every single head in the room turned toward me. I could practically hear the rumor multiplying in real time.

Viana walked toward my seat, stopping beside Jake. "Can I?"

Jake didn't even argue. He vacated the seat instantly.

She sat beside me—too close—her thigh almost brushing mine.

"Hehe, she's just messing with you guys," I tried, forcing a light chuckle. "She likes attention."

Tigilan mo na 'to, Viana.