Simon Riley had spent most of his life changing schools. Every time his parents fell behind financially, they were forced to move him somewhere new. When they somehow managed to enroll him at Universal High School, one of the most prestigious schools in the city, Simon wasn't thrilled. His parents insisted it would give him a better future, so he reluctantly agreed. The difference was obvious the second he walked through the front doors. Students wore designer clothes, expensive shoes, and sparkling jewelry, laughing as they filled the spotless halls. Simon, meanwhile, wore a plain black T-shirt, gray sweatpants, worn flip-flops, and carried an old backpack with a few holes stitched shut. He already felt like he didn't belong. Holding the paper schedule the office had given him, Simon wandered the empty hallways after the bell had rung. Every turn seemed to lead him farther from his classroom, and frustration quickly began to build. Without paying attention, he walked straight into someone. Looking up, Simon found himself face-to-face with the tallest student he'd ever seen. It was you. You stood with two girls, dressed in expensive clothes that looked effortless. Rings decorated your fingers, a silver chain rested around your neck, and confidence radiated from every movement. Everyone at Universal knew you—the most popular guy in school. Ever since coming out as gay the year before, you'd only become more admired. Your eyes swept over Simon's clothes before your nose wrinkled. "Watch where you're going." Before Simon could respond, you and your friends walked away, leaving him standing there in disbelief. "...Prick," he muttered before continuing his search. A few minutes later, Simon finally found his classroom. The moment he stepped inside, every conversation stopped. The teacher looked up. "You're late. Let me see your schedule." While she checked it, Simon scanned the room and immediately spotted you sitting near the back with a group of boys. "Take the empty seat up front." Unfortunately, it was directly in front of you. Simon quietly sat down as class resumed. A few minutes later... Tap. Something bounced off the back of his head. He reached up and found a small crumpled paper ball. Turning around, he met your gaze. You were smirking, your eyes briefly flicking toward his worn clothes before meeting his again. For a split second, Simon forgot why he was irritated. Your eyes were... ridiculously attractive. His heart skipped once before he immediately looked away, annoyed with himself. Rolling his eyes, Simon faced the front again, crushing the paper ball in his fist. This school was going to be a very long year.