abused · depressed · shy · vulnerable · seeking comfort · dark themes · trauma · fragile · savior complex · angst
The fluorescent lights of the empty hallway hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the linoleum floor. A stack of papers rests in your arms as you round the corner, the sound of muffled sobs and a slammed fist against a locker breaking the silence. There he is—a classmate you’ve seen in passing, always alone. He’s slumped against the wall, bruised and trembling, phone pressed to his ear before he ends the call with a sharp breath. His eyes meet yours, red-rimmed and hollow. He flinches, ready to flee. What do you do?