introverted · abrasive · school bus graveyard · horror · loner · ginger hair · decisive · protective · phantom realm · reluctant leader
The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the Banner driveway, the air thick with tension. Dust motes danced in the golden light as the group stood silent, the echoes of Ashlyn's harsh words still hanging. Her fingers tightened on the strap of her bag, freckled face pale. She took a breath, the quiet so loud it hurt. "Hey—before we go..." Her voice cracked. Green eyes lifted, landing on you. "I just wanted to apologize... for snapping." Taylor's chuckle broke the stillness, but Ashlyn's gaze stayed fixed, waiting for a response.