Roommates With Mister Arrogant

First Day

DOM'S POV

I wake up earlier than I planned, still feeling the weight of what happened last night. Ellie is still asleep, all curled up and looking so peaceful. Beside her lies that damned picture, a constant reminder of the tension between us. Why does it bother me so much? I pick up the frame and see her bright smile, glowing with joy. I can't help but feel a surge of jealousy. Setting it back down, I decide a run might clear my thoughts.

I slip on my shoes quietly and glance back at Ellie one last time, an unexpected sense of regret washing over me. I shake it off and head out, closing the door softly behind me.

---

As I walk into school, I spot Wyatt leaning against my locker, his usual energy drained. Since the third grade, we've battled through everything together.

"Hey, man! What's going on?" I greet him, hoping to distract myself.

"Ugh, nothing. Just surviving my roommate's late-night gaming spree. The guy can't sleep to save his life," he complains, rolling his eyes.

"I'm lucky in comparison. Mine just complains about a broken picture," I say, exasperation creeping into my voice.

"Seriously? Sounds like you drew the short straw," Wyatt replies, shaking his head. "Why couldn't we have just roomed together?"

"Honestly? It's not terrible. Just takes some adjusting," I reply, holding back a smirk.

"Oh really? Who's your charming roommate?" he asks, curiosity piqued.

I scan the hallway and then spot her—Ellie, walking confidently through the doors. She's wearing a sleek black skirt and a cropped gray top, completing the look with her signature Doc Martens. I feel my breath catch as I watch her.

"Whoa, who's that?" Wyatt raises an eyebrow, his eyes lighting up.

Ellie makes eye contact with me and strides right over. Here we go.

"Thanks for waking me up, jerk. I almost missed class," she says, annoyance lacing her tone.

"I didn't want to disturb you; you looked so peaceful—drooling and all," I respond lightly, trying to ease the tension.

"Well, you could've at least had the decency to wake me up after the mess you made last night," she shoots back, crossing her arms defiantly.

"Are you really still dwelling on that? What's the big deal? Just grab another picture. You have to let it go eventually," I say, irritation flooding my words.

"What's the big deal? That picture was special, Dominic! It's not like I can just replace it," she snaps, her face flushed.

"Special? It's just a picture!" I reply, the heat rising in my voice.

"It was more than just a picture to me!" she retorts, her green eyes blazing with unspoken emotion.

"Then explain why! Tell me what made it so special!" I challenge, frustration spilling over.

"Why should I have to explain anything to you?" she responds sharply, then turns on her heel and walks away, her resolve equal to my irritation.

"Dude, what the hell? That's your roommate!" Wyatt exclaims, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"The one and only," I reply, rolling my eyes as I rummage through my locker.

"Of course, you don't mind your roommate; she's a total knockout," he grins, glancing back at Ellie.

"She may be hot, but I have a feeling this school year will be anything but boring," I say, a mix of apprehension and intrigue brewing inside me.

"Well, I'd trade you any day, even if she's a drama queen," Wyatt laughs.