_Adrian's POV_

I trudged through the school hallway, my sneakers squeaking against the polished wooden floor. Each step felt like a chore, my legs heavy with exhaustion. Beads of sweat lined my forehead, matting my annoyingly long hair across my face. I was thinking of cutting it, but my mom would kill me.

As I walked, the sounds of the school—lockers slamming, students chatting, teachers lecturing—blurred together. My mind wandered to the events that led me here. Two weeks ago, I was driving a sleek SUV, a gift from my dad. Now, I was lucky to catch the bus. The reason? I'd crashed my dad's expensive gift after a night of heavy drinking. Tequila wasn't my friend.

I collapsed onto a nearby bench, my legs giving out. This wasn't just fatigue; it was utter collapse. My body felt like lead, my muscles screaming in protest. I let out a deep breath, trying to shake off the exhaustion.

The school bell rang, signaling the end of the first period. I groaned, realizing I'd missed most of my class. I forced myself to stand, using the bench for support. My legs wobbled beneath me, threatening to buckle.

I made my way to class, peeking through the door to avoid drawing attention. Miss Anderson, our English teacher, had her back to the class, writing on the whiteboard. I seized the opportunity to slip in unnoticed.

As I settled beside Damien, my best friend, he raised an eyebrow. "Rough morning?" he whispered.

I nodded, still trying to catch my breath. "You have no idea."

Damien chuckled. "You look like you've been through a war. What happened?"

I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "Just...everything."

Miss Anderson turned, her eyes locking onto mine. "Do you mind giving me a valid explanation for why you're two hours late to class, Mr. Adrian?"

I swallowed hard, searching for an excuse. "I...uh...overslept."

Just as she began to scold me, a commotion at the door interrupted us. The principal walked in with a stunning girl. Her name was Heaven Carter, and her Italian accent caught my attention.

"Welcome, class," the principal said. "This is Heaven, our new student. She'll be joining us for the remainder of the semester."

Heaven's gaze swept the room, her eyes locking onto mine. I felt a spark, but quickly looked away, not wanting to draw attention.

Damien nudged me, whispering, "Whoa, she's gorgeous."

I elbowed him, warning him to shut up.

As the class continued, Heaven's presence captivated everyone. Even the gay guys were staring. Maya, one of the gay girls, had her mouth agape.

When Heaven's gaze met mine again, I grinned, feeling a connection. But Damien's teasing snapped me back to reality.

"You're gonna make it obvious, dude," he whispered. "She'll think you're a creep."

I straightened up, feigning nonchalance. "It's not like that. I was just yawning."

The class dragged on, with Miss Anderson discussing Shakespeare's sonnets. My mind wandered, thoughts drifting back to Heaven.

After class, Miss Anderson reminded me, "Adrian, don't forget you're still on detention for being late. I'll see you Monday morning."

I nodded, relieved she hadn't forgotten.

Damien and I packed up our bags, and as we walked out, he said, "Dude, you're really into her, aren't you?"

I shrugged, playing it cool. "Just curious."

Damien chuckled. "Save it, Adrian. I know you."

We sprinted out of the classroom, racing against time to make our next class.