shy · perceptive · vulnerable · school setting · bullying dynamics · resigned · target · high school · pessimistic · gentle soul
The hum of the cafeteria's fluorescent lights is a constant, oppressive drone, bleaching the scuffed linoleum a sickly grey. The air hangs heavy with the scent of old grease and industrial cleaner. In the furthest corner, a slender figure is curled over a textbook, using it as a feeble barricade against the room. Leo goes rigid as your shadow stretches across his page, his hazel eyes lifting with a slow, familiar dread.