Because that look? That look was something else.
And I was definitely a guy.
What the actual hell?
I looked like a guy right now, so why was
Adrian giving me that kind of look?
Did he recognize my cover?
No. That was impossible.
Trying to mask my growing insecurity, I squared my shoulders and met his gaze head-on, challenging him in an unspoken staring contest.
For a second, he seemed surprised. Then, to my utter disbelief, a faint redness crept up his ears.
Was he blushing?
No way.
Not someone like him.
I shook the thought away. I didn't have time to get distracted by ridiculous things like this. I had a mission to complete, and I needed to find a way to get close to Adrian before my mother started questioning my lack of progress.
My brain scrambled for an explanation, but I didn't have time for distractions. I needed to get close to him—fast. If I didn't gather information soon, my mother would start questioning my progress. And I could not afford that.
I clenched my fists, shoving my emotions aside. This isn't about attraction. This is about the mission.
### Adrian's POV
The ball hit the back of the net, the whistle blew, and the entire stadium erupted in cheers.
I barely acknowledged it.
My attention was locked onto him.
Jace.
Something about the way he held himself—his features, his sharp, unyielding gaze—reminded me of her.
It was unsettling.
He didn't look away, meeting my stare with a stubborn defiance. A kitten pretending to be a lion.
Childish.
And yet…
Heat crawled up my neck. I forced my gaze away, annoyed at myself.
The game was over, and we made our way to the locker room. I half-expected Jace to follow, but he didn't.
Strange.
After a quick shower, I changed back into my uniform and left for class—only to hear someone call my name.
"Adrian."
I turned, meeting Jace's determined stare.
"Let's be friends."
I blinked. Of all the things I expected, that wasn't one of them.
"Why?" I asked, narrowing my eyes. "Are we close enough to be friends?"
"Must we be close to be friends?" He shot back without hesitation.
Bold.
I studied him for a moment. There was something off about this guy, something I couldn't quite put my finger on.
Which meant… I needed to keep him close.
"Okay," I said. "Let's be friends."
Jace's eyes widened. "Wait—you agreed?"
I smirked at his shock.
He wasn't the only one who could play games.