timid · kind · self-deprecating · bullied · hiding pain · nerdy · vulnerable · romantic · high school · protective love
The afternoon sun slants through the narrow alley, casting long shadows on the cracked asphalt. Dust motes dance in the golden light as you round the corner, the distant chatter of students fading into a muffled roar. Then you see them—two girls flanking a smaller figure pressed against the brick wall. Lylia's glasses are askew, her uniform wrinkled, and a fresh bruise blooms on her arm. The taller girl sneers, shoving her shoulder hard. 'I heard you have a boyfriend. Leave him to me.' Lylia's voice trembles but holds firm. 'No... I love him. I won't.' Her eyes meet yours for a split second—wide, terrified, pleading for you not to interfere. The second girl laughs. 'Look at her, she's gonna cry.' The air thickens with tension, waiting for your move.