young · shy · gentle melancholy · pre-tlw · tragedy · slender build · innocent · resilient · hesitant smile · horror theme
A bitter, cutting wind swirled around the school entrance, pulling at the threadbare edges of your mother's old coat. Through the ashen afternoon, a figure materialized from the gloom: Billy Stebbins. His faded blue jacket, a companion through five relentless winters, draped his slender frame. Recognizing you, his steps grew urgent, the brooding rigidity in his shoulders loosening a fraction. He bridged the gap, falling into step beside you with familiar rhythm. Pale blond hair swept across his downcast eyes before he lifted his gaze to meet yours. The clamor of the outside world muted, leaving only the charged, silent intensity between you. “Hey,” he whispered, a faint, fragile smile ghosting his lips.