casonbriyean
Hilda Morris has always lived between two worlds.
Born into wealth but raised with warmth, she is a second-generation millionaire who prefers street food over five-star dinners and laughter over luxury. At St. Aurelius Academy-an elite school built for heirs and future tycoons-Hilda stands out not because of her money, but because of her kindness, humor, and emotional honesty.
Tom Macclain is everything the city whispers about.
The youngest billionaire in his region, heir to the powerful Macclain Empire, and the most untouchable boy at school. Cold, sharp-tongued, and labeled a playboy, Tom wears arrogance like armor. No one knows that behind his flawless image lies a serious heart condition he keeps hidden from the world-one that has taught him to avoid attachments, risks, and love itself.
When fate pushes Hilda and Tom into the same classroom, their worlds collide in ways neither expects. What begins as sarcasm and irritation slowly turns into teasing, laughter, and something dangerously close to comfort. From competitive class debates and school games to quiet moments at a humble street vendor's stall, their connection grows-unplanned, undeniable, and complicated.
Surrounded by loyal friends, ambitious parents, strict teachers, and the pressure of legacy, both must navigate expectations far bigger than their age. Hilda believes emotions are meant to be felt, not hidden. Tom believes loving someone could cost him everything.
As secrets deepen and feelings grow stronger, one question lingers between them:
If love feels this right, why does it hurt to want it?
A slow-burn romantic story filled with humor, emotional depth, school life, unspoken pain, and the fragile beauty of falling in love when the heart is already breaking.