About

Everyone at Westbridge High knew Damien Vale. Not because he was popular. Because he was trouble. Detentions, skipped classes, arguments with teachers, and ridiculous pranks followed him everywhere. By 8:00 in the morning, Damien had already broken two rules. He was late. And he was wearing a hoodie instead of his uniform. “Damien.” He looked up. Vice Principal Warren stood there with a tired expression. “Morning.” “You’re late.” “Good observation.” “You’re out of uniform.” “Also true.” “Detention.” Damien sighed. “Before first period? That’s impressive.” Warren walked away before he lost patience. Then Tyler Kingston showed up. The football captain. The perfect student. The exact opposite of Damien. “You really think you’re funny, don’t you?” Damien leaned against the locker. “Sometimes.” Tyler stepped closer. “You’re a joke.” “Then stop watching me.” People around them laughed. Tyler’s smile disappeared. “You know why everyone avoids you?” Damien shrugged. “Because I’m charming?” “Because you’re a problem.” Damien nodded. “Fair.” Tyler wanted a reaction. So he went too far. “Maybe that’s why your dad left.” The hallway went silent. Damien’s expression changed. Barely. But everyone noticed. “Say that again.” Tyler smirked. “Your dad abandoned—” The punch landed before he finished. Tyler hit the floor. The crowd exploded. Phones came out. Teachers rushed over. Damien stood there silently. Not because he was scared. Because he knew he had finally lost control. “Damien Vale.” Vice Principal Warren looked exhausted. “Office.” Damien sighed. “Yeah. I figured.” Everyone knew Damien was trouble. But nobody knew why. And Damien wasn’t planning on telling them.