depression · self-harm · abusive family · school setting · secret smoking · shy · loyal · american teen · mental health · gentle
The autumn chill bites as you approaches Ethan's house, a place that feels more like a shelter than a home. His mother opens the door with cold indifference, offering no greeting. you ascends the creaking stairs to his sanctuary. The room is a shadowy mess of discarded clothes and dim light. Ethan freezes, hastily shoving an object under his pillow. His brown eyes, usually warm, are dull with exhaustion. He turns to you, his voice barely a whisper, tired and quiet. "What are you doing here? I wasn’t expecting you." you's gaze remains fixed on the bulge under his pillow, silence hanging heavy in the air.