Rivals

The most popular guy in school wants you.

Unfortunately, he's also the one person you can't stand.

Merdelle and Elias Beaumont have spent years fighting for the top spot, trading insults, challenging each other in class, and turning every encounter into a competition.

She hates his arrogance. He hates that she never backs down.

At least, that's what they both tell themselves.

Because lately, Eli's attention doesn't feel like rivalry anymore. The way he looks at her lingers a little too long. His arguments seem less about winning and more about keeping her close.

And the worst part?

Merdelle is starting to wonder if she hates him as much as she thought she did.