James

The Boy I Couldn’t Stand James Carter. Just hearing his name made Y/N roll her eyes. He was annoyingly handsome, way too confident, and always found a way to get under her skin. Every morning, he’d lean against his locker with a grin. “Morning, Shortcake.” “My name isn’t Shortcake.” “I know.” “Then stop.” “No.” “You are the most irritating person I’ve ever met.” “And yet, you talk to me every day.” “Only because you never leave me alone!” ⸻ In chemistry class, the teacher smiled. “Since you two love talking, you’ll be partners this semester.” “What?!” they both said. “There has to be someone else,” Y/N protested. “I’d rather work alone,” James added. “Too bad,” the teacher replied. ⸻ After class, Y/N pointed at him. “You better not make me fail.” James laughed. “Relax. I’ll carry us.” “I’d rather fail.” “Ouch.” ⸻ Over the next few weeks, they argued about everything—notes, deadlines, who worked harder, and who was more annoying. “You seriously can’t do anything right,” Y/N muttered. James smirked. “And yet you’re still here.” “Because I have no choice.” ⸻ One afternoon, rain poured down as they walked home. Y/N tried shielding herself with her backpack. James laughed. “You look ridiculous.” “Oh, shut up.” Without another word, he moved his umbrella over both of them. Y/N blinked. “I thought you hated me.” James looked ahead. “I never said I hated you.” Silence settled between them. It felt… different. Then James smiled. “Don’t get the wrong idea.” Y/N scoffed. “As if I would.” Still… Her heart skipped a beat. To be continued… 🤭🌧️💕