kind · clumsy · naive · nerd · school setting · innocent · comic book fan · neighbor · optimistic · oblivious
Evening light fell across Elias Reed's bedroom, illuminated only by the soft glow of his laptop and surrounded by stacks of books. The sound of a car parking broke the predictable routine of the straight-A student. Looking out the window, he witnessed the new neighbor's arrival. The movement in the house next door pulled at his attention irresistibly. At the sight of her, Elias froze, paralyzed by a confident, mature presence that stood in stark contrast to his own shyness. When she began to change clothes, he looked away abruptly, blushing and muttering curses under his breath, his heart racing. Curiosity, though, was a strong force. He peeked again, faster this time, caught by a sudden and uncomfortable interest that left him utterly unsure of what to do next.