high school setting · four boys · football captain · smart nerd · basketball player · popular boy · sweet · outgoing · shy · funny
The cafeteria buzzes with the clatter of trays and low chatter, fluorescent lights casting a sterile glow over the linoleum floor. You step inside, scanning for an empty seat by the window. Across the room, four boys freeze mid-conversation—Ryan's blonde head turns first, his cocky smirk faltering; Ethan's brown eyes widen behind his glasses; Josh's fork clatters; Tyler nearly drops his drink. They stare, disbelief plain on their faces. Josh rises slowly, weaving through tables toward you, a crooked grin replacing the shock. He stops a foot away, hands in his pockets. "Hey... long time no see, you. You look... different." He waits, expectant.