A Gangster Paradise

Rowan entered the school gates with his usual composed expression. It wasn't a special day in terms of classwork, but his presence always seemed to create ripples.

Teachers greeted him with smiles, students followed him with their eyes, and the air seemed to hum with quiet admiration. He was, after all, more than just a coach; Rowan was a walking enigma, attractive and effortlessly charming.

As he strolled into the teacher's lounge, Ms. Evelyn, the beautiful young history teacher, was first to greet him. With her long brown hair and sharp green eyes, she was admired by both students and faculty alike.

Rowan leaned against the doorframe, flashing his signature easy smile.

"Morning, Ms. Evelyn," He greeted, his deep voice causing her to blush slightly. She tried to maintain composure, though there was a playful glint in her eyes.

"Morning, Rowan. How's the class today?" Evelyn asked, though she was already well aware of his reputation with the students.

Everyone knew Rowan's classes were the highlight of the day for many. It wasn't just his skills in P.E. but his charm, the way he seemed to make everyone feel like they were his equal.

"Well, the guys are still trying to outdo each other, and the girls… well, let's just say they're very enthusiastic about fitness," Rowan replied with a smirk, leaning casually against the counter.

Evelyn laughed lightly, her eyes lingering on him for a second too long. "You have quite the impact on them, don't you?"

"Maybe a little," Rowan said, his smile never wavering. He liked Evelyn—she was smart, kind, and easy to talk to, but he wasn't exactly interested in her beyond being a colleague. However, his presence always seemed to affect people like her in ways they didn't fully understand.

Suddenly, Mr. Henderson, the chemistry teacher, walked in. A middle-aged man with a thick mustache and a perpetually grumpy demeanor, he was known for his sarcastic remarks and bitter attitude, especially when it came to Rowan.

"Ah, the star athlete himself," Mr. Henderson sneered, narrowing his eyes. "Always stealing the spotlight."

Rowan raised an eyebrow but didn't respond, his tone light and teasing. "You've got a lot of energy today, Mr. Henderson. Something on your mind?"

"You're always so popular with the students, always showing up, always the center of attention," Henderson muttered, a touch of jealousy seeping through. "The gym must be a fun place for you."

Rowan grinned. "You should try it sometime. A good workout might help with that... attitude of yours."

The tension between them was obvious, but Rowan let it slide, always the professional. He liked to keep things cordial, but Mr. Henderson's jealousy often created awkward moments.

Evelyn, sensing the rising tension, quickly jumped in to change the subject.

"Rowan, how about we grab lunch together later?" She suggested, giving Henderson an innocent smile, though her gaze was more on Rowan. "We can talk about the upcoming school event."

Rowan nodded, grateful for the distraction. "Sure, I'll be there."

Mr. Henderson's scowl deepened, and he grumbled something under his breath as he exited the room.

Rowan chuckled and turned his attention back to Evelyn.

"Looking forward to it," He said, flashing her a grin.

By midday, it was time for his P.E. class. Rowan was well aware that the gymnasium was his stage, a place where he could shine and inspire at the same time. As the students gathered, he casually leaned against the wall, waiting for them to settle in.

The male students were all eager to show off their skills, while the girls couldn't help but steal glances in his direction.

"Alright, let's get this started," Rowan called out, his voice smooth but commanding. "Today, we're focusing on teamwork, so I expect all of you to work together. No lone wolves."

The male students chuckled, nodding eagerly. They respected him and admired him even, but there was an underlying competitive spirit when it came to trying to impress him. Rowan was aware of this, and it only made him more magnetic to them.

"Hey, Coach, do you think you could teach us that move you did in the last game?" One of the star players asked, clearly hoping to get some special attention.

Rowan smiled but shook his head. "Not today, man. You'll get there with some hard work."

He knew the boys respected his skills, but he always kept the coaching focused on growth, not ego.

As the class went on, the girls began to giggle and whisper among themselves, stealing covert glances at Rowan. Some tried to get his attention, making sure to stand near him during drills, while others shyly avoided his gaze.

One of the more outspoken girls, Lena, couldn't help but approach him after a few laps around the gym.

"Rowan, do you think I could ever keep up with the boys?" Lena asked, catching her breath. "You're so strong, I feel like I'm slacking off."

Rowan smiled reassuringly. "Lena, you've got more strength than you give yourself credit for. You just need to push yourself harder. It's all about believing you can do it."

Lena blushed, her crush on him clear. "Thanks, Rowan... I'll try harder."

Meanwhile, Samantha and Tina, two of the wealthier and more arrogant students, watched the exchange from a distance, their eyes rolling.

"Can you believe this?" Samantha whispered to Tina, her voice dripping with condescension. "Who does he think he is, getting all cozy with the students? And he's just a gym teacher."

Tina nodded, sneering. "I don't get the hype. He looks like just another wannabe with a cute smile. I'm sure he's just trying to get in with the girls."

Rowan overheard the muttered comments, though he didn't react. He'd dealt with this type before—privileged students who thought they were above everyone else.

After his long day of teaching, Rowan returned to his apartment, hoping for some quiet.

Yesterday, the clash between the Blood Roses and the Vipers had left more than bruised egos and spilled blood—it had turned Eden's Edge into a war zone.

Rowan actually went for a visit and saw the 'Closed for Renovations' sign hung crookedly in the window. For the first time in months, Rowan found himself free on a night when the club would've been packed with patrons and pulsing music. The quiet felt unnatural.

And that's why Rowan returned back to his apartment early.

However, as he approached his door, he froze. There, standing in the dimly lit hallway, was a familiar figure that he had not expected to see tonight.

But there she was...

And she had a haughty look on her face and it looked like she was here for something more... something that they did from time to time.