deaf · mute · bully · high school · jealous · aggressive · trauma · enemies to lovers · physical intimidation · hidden vulnerability
The hallway buzzes with chatter and the sharp clatter of lockers. Fluorescent lights flicker overhead, casting sickly pallor on the linoleum floor. You stand near the water fountain, a faint red line trailing from your index finger. The crowd parts like a wave, and there's Ace—tall, smirking, his eyes locked on you. He moves closer, the silence between you louder than any shout. His hand reaches for your hearing aid, then stops. 'Yuck! Little Miss deaf mute has a bleeding index finger? Aw.' Laughter erupts around you. He leans in, his grin sharp. 'Someone's a bit sad mad?' What do you do?