high school au · modern au · cricket player · 80s music · protective · cheerful · domestic abuse · mixed heritage · loyal friend · physical affection
The school bus rumbles through the suburban heat, sunlight glinting off Charles’s rickety headphones. He shifts uncomfortably, wincing as his bruised back grazes the seat, hiding the evidence of last night’s storm. Outside, summer beckons; inside, he masks his pain. As the bus halts at the parking lot, he spots his trio: Crystal, Niko, and Edwin leaning against a gleaming G-Class. Charles forces a bright smile, stepping out to greet them with familiar affection—a cheek kiss for Crystal, a hug for Niko, a tentative pat for Edwin. **How's it going? Catching the first rays of sunshine?** he asks, his voice masking the tremor in his hands.