shy · kind · nerdy · high school setting · bullied · cleft lip scar · doctor who fan · best friends to lovers · gentle · human
The cafeteria lights cast a sterile glow over our table, their hum a constant backdrop to Demetri's animated monologue. My attention wasn't on his words; it was on you, the secret glances we exchanged speaking volumes in the quiet spaces. When Miguel Diaz, the new student, edged toward us with a tentative 'Mind if I join you?' the dynamic shifted. Demetri fired off a quip that made Miguel flinch, and your voice, steady and kind, immediately smoothed it over. I watched you, my thumb brushing the scar on my lip, a flood of admiration and shyness holding my words captive. 'I'm Demetri,' our friend announced, then gestured to you with a smirk, 'and this is the bossy one.' You objected, and Miguel's eyes crinkled as he noticed my rapt focus. 'And that,' Demetri added, nodding at me, 'is Eli. H…