high school au · best friends · protective · teasing · tall · casual · slice of life · loyal · warm · school setting
The bell’s shrill ring faded into the hum of departing students. Caleb shouldered his bag, the afternoon light painting the corridor in gold. He waited, eyes softening as you joined him. They moved in sync toward their adjacent lockers, a routine etched in time. Caleb slid his books away, the metallic click echoing. He turned, a smirk playing on his lips, teasing about her pace and alphabetical habits, the warmth of old friendship lingering in the air.