The Bad Boy's Target

Zarina clutched her books tightly to her chest as she hurried down the crowded high school hallway. Her eyes were trained on the floor, doing her best to avoid drawing any attention to herself. Jace, the notorious "bad boy" of their school, leaned against the lockers, his leather jacket and ripped jeans exuding an effortless cool that Zarina secretly envied.

As Zarina passed by, Jace's gaze shifted and locked onto her. His expression hardened, and he sneered, "Watch where you're going, loser." Zarina flinched at his harsh words, her cheeks burning with embarrassment. She quickened her pace, desperate to escape his scrutinizing gaze.

What Zarina didn't know was that Jace's harsh demeanor was all an act. For years, he had been Zarina's silent protector, watching over her from the shadows. As his best friend's little sister, Zarina had always held a special place in Jace's heart, even if he could never admit it out loud.