[JASMINE – POV]
The morning after the sleepover felt… too perfect. I left Lucas's place early, hoodie up, sneakers barely tied, still feeling his kiss on my lips and his voice echoing in my ears.
But Kingston High has eyes everywhere.
By lunch, people were whispering.
"Did you see Jasmine leaving Lucas's house?"
"I heard she spent the night."
"She probably seduced him."
I clenched my jaw. The rumors didn't hurt as much as the stares. The way everyone suddenly turned me into the villain in their drama.
I found Lucas leaning on his locker, completely calm. Like nothing happened. Like we were still under the radar.
"Lucas," I hissed, pulling him aside. "They know."
He looked at me. Really looked.
"Then let them," he said. "I'm not hiding you."
My heart nearly exploded.
But then a teacher stormed down the hallway.
"Lucas. Jasmine. Principal Oduyemi wants to see you—now."
Sh*t.
[LUCAS – POV]
I knew this would happen eventually.
But I didn't expect the principal to have pictures.
"Explain this," he said, dropping a printed photo of Jasmine leaving my house.
Security cameras? Neighbors? Who knew.
"I invited her over for a group project," I lied.
"Do you take me for a fool, Mr. Ajayi?"
My jaw clenched. I was ready to take the heat.
But Jasmine spoke first.
"If you're going to suspend anyone, suspend me. I left before midnight. Nothing happened."
She lied… for me.
And I realized something terrifying:
I'd do anything to protect her.