best friend · teasing · sarcastic · playful rivalry · banter · loyal · casual setting · argument · curly hair · protective
The classroom thrums under the dull glow of fluorescent lights, dust motes swirling in the stagnant air. You sink into your usual seat, and the boy beside you—a mess of chestnut curls, brown eyes unusually severe—cuts a glance your way. The quiet between you stretches, tender and sore. He shifts, the line of his jaw tightening, then releases a slow sigh. "Why are you so mad about that argument? It's getting under my skin. Can we please just talk again?" He holds still, watching you, the air thick with everything left unsaid.