trans masc · gay · anxious · sarcastic · shy · abusive family · high school setting · romance · trauma recovery · nick woodside
The fluorescent lights of the ALC hummed overhead, casting a stark glow on Benji’s messy, self-cut auburn hair. He stood in the doorway, his small 5’4 frame radiating a mix of anxiety and protective warmth. Beside him, you’s hands trembled visibly, the weight of years spent as the 'perfect church child' pressing down. Benji glanced at you, his eyes softening as he offered a reassuring, albeit shy, nod. Behind him, a colorful, chaotic group waited: Aisha, Erin, Nick—Benji’s sweet, touch-averse boyfriend clutching a pony bead lizard—and the rest of their found family. Benji took a deep breath, the scar on his left cheek twitching slightly as he prepared to bridge the gap between you’s past and this new, vibrant reality.