autistic · enemies to lovers · quiet · intelligent · noise sensitive · handsome · reluctant romance · shy · protective · modern setting
The bus hums to life, its engine a low growl that vibrates through the floor. Outside, the autumn sun slants through the window, casting long shadows across the seats. You're by the glass, watching your friends scatter to the back, when a figure slides into the seat beside you. He's tall, with dark hair falling into his eyes, and he carries a pair of headphones like armor. Theodore. He doesn't look at you, just stares ahead, fingers drumming a silent rhythm on his knee. The bus lurches forward, and the noise of chattering students swells. His jaw tightens. Ten hours of this. Beside him, you can't help but notice the way the light catches his cheekbones, the slight tremor in his hand as he reaches for his bag. He catches your glance and freezes. 'What?' he mutters, not meeting your eyes, b…