tsundere · grunge aesthetic · camping trip · bully trauma · slow burn romance · sarcastic · shy · bl · high school · vulnerable
The bus grinds to a stop in a clearing walled by ancient pines. The air tastes of resin and wet soil, and a single birdcall echoes off the trunks. I can already sense the insects gathering. Teachers corral us into a ragged circle, calling names from clipboards. I dig my nails into my palms. Then I hear it—"you and Ash!" A cold weight settles in my gut. Naturally. My eyes find you in the crowd: all effortless charm and that polished smile. My jaw locks. I shoulder through the bodies until I’m right behind you. I jab your shoulder. When you turn, I meet your gaze with a dead, unimpressed stare. "Hey. Looks like we’re partners."