The day after Jason humiliated Tyler behind the gym, his name spread like wildfire throughout the school. Everyone knew now — the new guy was a monster. Nobody dared to look him in the eye, let alone test him. But Jason didn't care about any of that. His focus was solely on two things: training and Alex Dunphy.
The morning flew by until third period — Chemistry. Jason walked in, still radiating confidence, but internally, he was preparing himself for something far more dangerous than a street fight — working with Alex.
As he took his seat, the teacher spoke up.
"Alright, class. We're starting our next project today — partner work. I've already assigned your partners, so check the board."
Jason's eyes immediately scanned the list. His chest tightened.
Jason Carter - Alex Dunphy
Yes.
He kept his cool but couldn't ignore the way his heart sped up. This was his chance — to get closer to her, to make her notice him beyond just his reputation.
---
After Class
As the class ended, Jason caught up to Alex just outside the door. "Hey, looks like we're partners."
Alex turned, slightly surprised but composed. "Oh. Yeah, guess we are."
Jason could sense a wall between them — not hostility, but definitely caution. She's sharp. She's not like the other girls.
"So, when do you wanna get started?" he asked, trying to sound casual.
Alex adjusted her glasses. "I'm free after school today. My house, if that's okay?"
Jason's stomach flipped. Her house?
"Yeah, sounds good," he said smoothly. "Text me the address?"
She nodded, already pulling out her phone. "What's your number?"
Jason rattled it off, and within seconds, he got a text.
Alex: Hey, this is me. See you after school.
Jason stared at the screen, a sly grin tugging at his lips. This is happening.
---
After School - Alex's House
Jason stood outside the Dunphy residence, his heart pounding for the first time in years — and not from a fight. He took a deep breath, forcing himself to relax. Don't screw this up. Be respectful. Leave a good impression.
He rang the doorbell, and moments later, Alex answered. She looked casual — jeans and a loose shirt — but Jason still thought she looked stunning.
"Hey, you made it," she said, stepping aside. "Come in."
Jason stepped inside, immediately greeted by the cozy, suburban feel of the Dunphy household. The sound of TV echoed from the living room where Phil Dunphy, Alex's father, was sprawled out watching sports highlights.
"Who's that?" Phil called out.
"Uh, my chemistry partner, Jason," Alex answered quickly.
Jason instantly shifted his demeanor. He approached Phil and offered a firm handshake. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Dunphy."
Phil raised a brow, impressed by Jason's firm grip and respectful tone. "Whoa, strong handshake. You a football player?"
"Boxer, sir."
Phil's eyes widened. "Boxer? Like Rocky?"
Jason grinned. "Something like that."
Phil beamed. "Nice! Well, any friend of Alex's is welcome here. Just don't punch any holes in the walls, alright?"
Jason chuckled. "I'll do my best."
Alex rolled her eyes. "C'mon, let's get started upstairs."
Jason followed her up the stairs, hyper-aware of his surroundings. Don't mess this up. Be cool.
---
Alex's Room
Her room was exactly what he expected — neat, organized, and filled with books, scientific models, and awards. Jason felt a pang of admiration. She's brilliant.
"Alright," Alex said, setting her bag down. "We should probably outline our experiment first."
Jason nodded, taking a seat across from her at her desk. She opened her notebook, already outlining variables and methods. Jason leaned over and quickly absorbed everything she wrote.
"Actually," Jason spoke up, "if we mix a stronger base instead of a neutral one, the reaction will amplify by about 40%."
Alex blinked, surprised. "Wait… you know chemistry?"
Jason smiled. "Yeah. I mean, I like fighting, but I'm not dumb."
Alex scoffed. "No, I didn't mean it like that. I just didn't expect you to know chemical reactions off the top of your head."
Jason shrugged. "I read a lot. Used to mess with stuff like this in my garage."
For the first time, Alex genuinely smiled. "Huh. That's… impressive."
Jason felt a warm glow in his chest. She's starting to see me differently.
---
Two Hours Later
They worked seamlessly together. Every time Alex proposed an idea, Jason would counter with a more efficient solution. Their chemistry — both in science and in conversation — was undeniable.
Eventually, Alex sat back, rubbing her temples. "Okay. I think we have everything we need."
Jason nodded. "Yeah. We killed it."
Alex smiled softly. "You're not what I expected."
Jason raised a brow. "How so?"
She hesitated. "I mean… you're kind of this untouchable boxing prodigy that just obliterated our school's toughest guy. But you're also… surprisingly smart. And, you know, not a complete jerk."
Jason laughed. "Glad to exceed expectations."
The atmosphere between them shifted — more relaxed, less guarded. For the first time, Jason felt like she was actually seeing him beyond the violence.
---
Dinner Time
"Jason, you staying for dinner?" Phil suddenly called from downstairs.
Jason froze. Crap. I don't wanna overstay.
"Oh, no, Mr. Dunphy. I appreciate it, but I should probably get home."
Phil appeared at the staircase. "Nonsense! You're already here. We've got burgers on the grill."
Jason hesitated, glancing at Alex. She didn't seem opposed to the idea.
"…Alright, sure."
---
Dinner Table
Jason sat quietly, trying hard to leave a good impression. Claire Dunphy, Alex's mom, was polite but clearly skeptical of Jason. She noticed his physique, his hardened demeanor, and immediately pegged him as a potential troublemaker.
"So, Jason," Claire began, "boxing, huh?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Dangerous sport. Ever thought about trying something less… violent?"
Jason smiled politely. "I like the discipline it gives me. Keeps me focused."
Claire didn't look entirely convinced, but Phil was clearly sold. "Discipline! I like that. You ever knock someone out cold?"
Jason chuckled. "A few times."
Phil leaned forward, fascinated. "Like, one punch and bam, they're out?"
"Phil!" Claire scolded.
Jason grinned. "Yeah, that's happened."
Alex watched quietly, clearly studying Jason. Something about his humble yet confident demeanor was starting to intrigue her. He's not what I thought he'd be.
---
After Dinner
As Jason grabbed his bag to leave, Alex walked him to the door. "Thanks for coming over. You really helped with the project."
Jason smiled. "Anytime."
She hesitated before adding, "And… you made a pretty good impression on my dad."
Jason raised a brow. "What about you?"
Alex froze. "W-what?"
Jason smirked. "Did I make a good impression on you?"
Alex scoffed, flustered. "I-I mean… yeah. You're not bad."
Jason grinned, stepping out. "See you at school, partner."
As the door closed, Alex exhaled sharply, her heart still racing. What the hell is happening?
Meanwhile, Jason walked home, fists clenched. His need for violence was still there — but tonight? He felt something else growing.
Connection.
And he was hungry for more.