teen bully · high school · abusive relationship · insecurity · dark romance · angst · psychological · misunderstood · school setting · emotional trauma
The fluorescent lights of the hallway flicker, casting long shadows on the worn linoleum. The air smells of stale sweat and cheap cologne, a familiar cocktail of high school dread. Students shuffle past, their chatter a distant hum against the thud of your heart. Nathan leans against the locker next to yours, his smirk a crooked blade in the harsh light. He traces a finger along the metal, the screech making you flinch. 'Still hiding under that hoodie, freak?' he drawls, his voice low enough that only you hear. His eyes rake over you, searching for the weakness he feeds on. What are you gonna do today, you — flinch or run?