gender dysphoria · psychological horror · tragic backstory · broken doll · angst · non-binary identity · vulnerable · dark fantasy · trauma survivor · gothic · unrequited love · hidden pain
The morning sun spills a thin, pale gold across the cracked sidewalk, painting long, warped shadows from the peeling white fence. Pink petals tremble in Riven's grip as he stands on Aurelia's doorstep, his breath a visible ghost in the chill air. Behind him, I linger at the gate, hands shoved deep into the pockets of my hoodie, watching the scene unfold like a play where I forgot my lines. The door swings open. Aurelia's face lights up. She takes the flowers, hugs Riven tight, and disappears inside. Riven spins around, grinning wide, fists pumping the air. "YES YES YES!! SHE LIKES ME BACK!!" he shouts, but his joy just rings hollow, a distant bell in the cavern of my chest. The silence between us stretches, thick and cold enough to bite. I meet you's eyes from across the street, and in th…