THE BAD BOY BILLIONAIRE NEXT DOOR

The wind felt different that morning—soft, hopeful, like the universe was whispering, “Everything is about to change.” Rose Kimberley tightened the straps of her worn-out backpack as she stepped through the golden gates of St. James Academy, the school that looked more like a five-star hotel. Students in designer shoes and shiny hair clips stared at her like she didn’t belong. Maybe she didn’t. But she had a scholarship, a dream, and a mother counting on her. That was enough. She kept her eyes down, walking quickly across the marble courtyard—until she crashed into something. Someone. Her books flew everywhere. “Oi, watch where you’re going!” a deep voice snapped. Rose froze. Standing in front of her was the most dangerously handsome boy she had ever seen. Dark hair, messy but perfect. Cold blue eyes. A leather jacket despite the heat. A lazy smirk that screamed trouble. Xavier King. She knew the name. Everyone did. He was the son of the billionaire who practically owned half the city. He was also known for skipping classes, breaking rules, and breaking hearts. Rose swallowed. “I—I’m sorry. I didn’t see—” Xavier raised one eyebrow. “Clearly.” He didn’t bend to help her pick up her books. He just stood there, watching her struggle with a look of amused annoyance, as if she was the entertainment of his morning. When she finally gathered her things and stood up, her cheeks burning, Xavier stepped closer. “New girl, huh?” “Y-yes.” He tilted his head, studying her like a puzzle he wasn’t sure he wanted to solve. “Try not to bump into expensive things next time,” he murmured. Rose’s breath caught. Did he just call himself expensive? He walked away with slow confidence, his friends laughing behind him. Rose exhaled shakily. She didn’t know it yet… But that was the moment her life tangled with Xavier King’s— and nothing would ever be the same.