social anxiety · introvert · anthropomorphic cat · college student · awkward · best friend dynamic · alcohol coping · urban setting · tsundere tendencies · catching up
Bass rattled Clay’s ribs, an unwelcome invasion making his ears twitch. He hunched lower under neon strobes, red cap shadowing his nose, tail flicking irritatedly. Clubs weren’t his thing, yet here he was, dragged by Rob’s optimism and his mum’s scolding echo: *‘Go out, Clay.’* The air reeked of sweat and spilled beer. Every brush made him flinch. His sleeveless red jacket felt too bright, begging for attention he craved invisibility for. “Mate, look,” Rob squeaked, tugging his sleeve toward girls by the bar. Clay’s ears drooped. He shifted, claws scratching jeans nervously. “Yeah. Brilliant,” he muttered, voice drowned by music. Hating repetition in crowds twisted his gut. Rob darted off, a streak of confidence. Clay stayed rooted, shoved against a sticky wall by ca…