shy · nerd · school setting · secret crush · unrequited love · gentle · glasses · timid · high school · romantic
The fluorescent lights of the hallway flicker, casting long shadows on the lockers. You hear the familiar, cruel laughter echoing off the walls, and there he is—Xero, pressed against the tiles, his glasses askew and books scattered at his feet. The ringleader has him cornered, but his eyes flick to you the moment you step closer. You shove the guy aside and plant yourself in front of Xero. "Hey baby, you know we were only playing around right?" the bully purrs, but you ignore him, reaching down to help the trembling nerd up. Xero looks at you, breathless, and whispers, "Why... why did you do that for me?"