Maxine Noelle Herrera has always been number one. Her life was defined as perfect grades, perfect reputation and perfect life. Until she was forced by her father to transferred at Crestwell Academy and met Kael Monteverde, whose mere presence threatened everything she work hard to built. He's intelligent, arrogant, annoyingly calm, and somehow always one step behind-or always ahead-of her. Their rivalry becomes the center gossip of the campus: from the debate competitions, exam rankings, and student council conflicts to academic contests. They hate each other so much that their every interaction feels like a war. But things become complicated when rumors spread that they're dating. The line between hatred and affection slowly disappears. And the scariest part? They begin to understand each other more than anyone else ever could. Ctto: Picture isn't mine.

Betrayal once took everything from her. So this time... she'll take everything back. Being given a second chance, Catherine is no longer the naive noblewoman who was easily deceived. This time, she will not hate the wrong man. And this time, she will protect him. The Emperor will live. The traitors will fall. And the game of power? She will not be a pawn. She will be the Queen. Second chances are dangerous. Because this time, a new life begins. . . 📌 Started: 08/12/25 📌 Ended: 📌 Status: Current on hiatus (On-going)

Don't fall in love with me, or you'll regret loving me. - A.C. --------- Original story. Photos are not mine. Credits to the rightful owner. #strongfemaleprotagonist 39 | 253