Chapter 1: The First Clash

Thanapat, or Than as everyone called him, stood rigidly by the podium, his polished shoes gleaming under the bright auditorium lights. The debate hall was packed, buzzing with energy as students eagerly awaited the final match. His crisp uniform was ironed to perfection, every button fastened—the embodiment of control and precision.Across from him stood Kitphum, or Kit. With messy black hair and a slouched posture, Kit exuded the kind of effortless cool that made people gravitate toward him. His white shirt was untucked, sleeves rolled up carelessly, and a mischievous smirk played on his lips as he leaned against the podium like it was a bar counter instead of a formal debate stage.Than's jaw clenched. How is this guy my competition?"Ready to lose?" Kit drawled lazily, eyes gleaming with amusement.Than's eyes narrowed. "Confidence without substance is meaningless."Kit chuckled, unbothered. "Oh, don't worry. I've got plenty of substance—just not the stuck-up kind."The moderator called for silence, and the debate began. Arguments flew back and forth, each rebuttal sharper than the last. Than delivered facts with razor-sharp precision, his tone authoritative and commanding. Kit, on the other hand, wielded charm and wit like a sword, effortlessly dismantling Than's points with clever comebacks that had the audience laughing.By the end, the judges announced Kit's team as the winner.Than forced a smile through gritted teeth as he shook Kit's hand. "Congratulations," he said stiffly.Kit's grip was firm, his smile infuriatingly smug. "Thanks. Better luck next time, Mr. Perfect."Than pulled his hand back sharply. This isn't over.That night, Than stayed up replaying every moment of the debate in his mind. He hated losing—especially to someone as infuriating as Kit. Meanwhile, Kit was lounging on the rooftop of his dorm, the cool night breeze brushing against his skin. His phone buzzed with congratulatory messages, but his mind lingered on the look of fury in Than's eyes.This is going to be fun, Kit thought with a smirk.