The Deal

The campus of Briar University was buzzing with excitement as the new academic year kicked off. Among the myriad of students, Hannah Wells, a studious and determined young woman, was focused on one thing: her future in psychology. But beneath her calm exterior lay a simmering desire for Garrett Graham, the college's notorious bad boy and hockey team captain.

One evening, as Hannah sat in the library, engrossed in her studies, Garrett sauntered in with his usual swagger, catching the attention of everyone present. Noticing Hannah, a mischievous grin spread across his face.

"Hey, Wells," he drawled, taking a seat opposite her. "How's the love life?"

Hannah rolled her eyes. "None of your business, Graham."

Garrett leaned in closer. "What if I could help you get the attention of your crush?"

Intrigued, Hannah looked up. "And what would you want in return?"

"A date. A pretend date, to be exact. I need to make someone jealous," he replied, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Hannah contemplated the offer. It was absurd, yet there was something about Garrett's confidence that intrigued her. "Fine," she finally said. "But only if you promise to take our 'pretend' date seriously."

Garrett smirked. "Deal."

As the days passed, Hannah found herself reluctantly enjoying Garrett's company. Beneath his cocky exterior, she discovered a charming and passionate individual with dreams of playing professional hockey. Likewise, Garrett was captivated by Hannah's intelligence and wit, finding himself genuinely attracted to her.

One evening, after a particularly intense study session, Garrett walked Hannah back to her dorm. Under the soft glow of the streetlights, their eyes met, and the world around them seemed to fade away. In a moment of pure spontaneity, Garrett leaned in, capturing Hannah's lips in a gentle yet electrifying kiss.

The kiss was unlike anything they had ever experienced, igniting a fire within both of them. Breathless and overwhelmed, they pulled away, their eyes wide with shock.

"I...I should go," Hannah stammered, her cheeks flushed.

Garrett nodded, equally stunned. "Yeah, probably."

The following days were a whirlwind of emotions as Hannah and Garrett tried to navigate their newfound attraction while maintaining the pretense of their deal. However, as they spent more time together, it became clear that their feelings for each other were genuine.

One evening, Garrett took Hannah to a secluded spot overlooking the city. With the stars twinkling overhead, he confessed his true feelings, admitting that he wanted more than just a pretend relationship.

Hannah, touched by his sincerity, confessed her feelings as well, acknowledging that she had fallen for the college bad boy with a heart of gold.

In the end, Hannah and Garrett decided to pursue a real relationship, setting aside their initial deal. As they walked hand in hand, ready to face the challenges ahead, they knew that they had found something truly special: a love that was unexpected, undeniable, and oh so good.