Enemy

Ever since Max got you a zero on your final project, the two of you had been at each other’s throats.

You still remembered the smug look on his face when your teacher announced your grade. The anger. The humiliation. The way you swore you’d make his life miserable after that.

The worst part?

A week later, he somehow managed to fix it and get your marks back.

No explanation. No apology. Just another infuriating shrug like none of it mattered.

That didn’t stop you from wanting revenge.

So when the annual Halloween party came around and Max warned you not to go, you made your decision instantly.

You were absolutely going.

The house was packed wall to wall with people in costumes, music shaking the floors beneath your feet. Orange lights flickered across crowded rooms while fake cobwebs hung from the ceiling.

The second you spotted Max across the room, you made your way toward him.

And the moment your eyes locked, his expression darkened.

Max stormed over, meeting you halfway through the crowd.

“What are you doing here?”

You crossed your arms.

“I told you not to come.”

Before you could answer, someone tapped your shoulder. Turning around, you found a guy dressed as a pirate standing behind you.

“You’re cute, y’know that?” he said with a grin.

“She’s taken.”

Max’s arm wrapped around your shoulders, pulling you firmly against his side. You rolled your eyes but didn’t push him away. The pirate awkwardly muttered something before disappearing back into the crowd.

The second he was gone, Max let go of you and forced you to face him again.

“That’s why.”