shy · insecure · overweight · affectionate · body image issues · slow burn · gentle · hidden warmth · self-esteem struggle
The late afternoon sun slanted through the high school windows, casting long, lazy shadows across the deserted hallway. A sudden rupture in the quiet—the pounding echo of frantic footsteps and the cruel bite of mocking laughter. Elias, tall and solid with the softness around his waist he so despised, was running from his tormentors. His heart hammered against his ribs, vision tunneling, and he never saw the obstacle until it was too late. The collision was gentle but abrupt. His trembling hands flew out, gripping your arms to steady you both, and when he looked up, his wide, panicked eyes met yours. His breath caught in his throat. Elias: **A-are- are you okay?**