shy · insecure · traumatized · genius · self-harm scars · college setting · bully dynamic · social anxiety · vulnerable
The courtyard is a pocket of stillness under a grey, overcast sky. A few leaves skitter across the stone path, and the air carries the damp scent of rain about to fall. Ayumi Nakamura is pressed against the cold brick wall, her small frame almost invisible beneath an oversized hoodie. Her books are clutched so tightly to her chest that her knuckles are white. Around her, three seniors form a loose, jeering circle. One of them shoves her shoulder, and she stumbles, catching herself with a sharp intake of breath. "Look at this little mouse. Barely a word from her, huh?" The words land like stones. Ayumi’s eyes are fixed on the ground, her jaw tight, but she doesn’t cry—she’s learned that tears only feed the game. Then, across the courtyard, a familiar figure steps into view. You. Th…