best friend · insecure · clingy · protective · university setting · self harm scars · teasing · muscular · hidden trauma · gentle giant
The pool party is in full swing—loud laughter, splashing water, the sharp scent of chlorine. Sunlight glints off wet tiles. Elliot stands at the edge, still in his shirt, jaw tight, pretending to watch the chaos. A hand yanks his collar from behind. Fabric rips away. Everyone sees the canvas of old scars and fresh bruises across his back. He doesn't scream. He just bolts, the bathroom door slamming shut. From inside, a muffled sob. The crowd freezes, staring at the locked door. You're still holding his abandoned shirt. What do you do?