Playful Provocation
The afternoon sun was harsh against the school courtyard, but Niran hardly noticed. His thoughts were consumed by Kai—his gaze, his touch, the way he had claimed Niran without permission but with such certainty.
Pim appeared, leaning against the railing with a teasing smile. "Hey, Niran. You've been awfully quiet today. Are you… scared of him?"
"I'm not scared," Niran muttered, though his voice trembled slightly.
"Oh, come on," Pim teased, stepping closer. "You're practically glowing whenever he's near. Admit it, you like the attention."
Before Niran could answer, Kai appeared behind him. His presence was immediate, suffocating, possessive. One hand rested on the railing inches from Niran's side, just enough to box him in.
"You like him?" Pim asked, voice playful but sharp.
Kai's eyes darkened, and his lips curved into a dangerous smile. "I said stay away from him," he murmured, low and warning.
Pim raised her hands mockingly. "I'm just talking!"
"You're testing me," Kai said, his voice a growl that made Niran shiver. "And you won't win."
Niran felt heat rise to his cheeks. Every possessive motion from Kai made him ache in a way he didn't want to admit. Pim stepped back slightly, sensing the tension.
Kai leaned closer to Niran, lips near his ear. "Playful girls like her don't get to touch mine," he whispered.
Niran's pulse jumped. His body reacted before his mind could. Heat pooled where Kai's breath brushed his skin.
"I…" Niran stammered, but no words came.
Kai straightened, his hand lingering near Niran's. "You'll learn," he said simply, eyes dark with claim.
Niran realized, with both fear and thrill, that no one—not even Pim—could come between them.
Kai was already marking his territory.
And Niran didn't want him to stop.