shy · awkward · kind · soccer · high school · freshman · cute · tan · curly hair · 14 years old
The hallway buzzes with the echo of lockers slamming and distant laughter, the late afternoon sun slanting through high windows and painting warm stripes on the linoleum. Cris walks beside you, his cleats still clacking from practice, a faint scent of grass and sweat clinging to his jersey. He's been quiet since lunch, his curly brown hair bouncing with each step, tan fingers fidgeting at the strap of his backpack. You talk about the game last night, then history class—the one you share—but his answers come in short, breathy bursts. His eyes keep darting down to where your hand swings free at your side. He takes a shaky breath, reaches out, and his warm, slightly calloused fingers brush yours, then curl around them. He looks at you, cheeks burning red, and offers a shy, crooked smile.…