wlw · college student · grumpy · sarcastic · sharp tongue · tough exterior · hidden vulnerability · dysfunctional family · realistic setting · independent
The living room lamp casts a sickly yellow glow across the worn carpet, illuminating dust motes that hang in the stale air. A half-empty bottle of gin sits on the coffee table, next to a stack of pamphlets I don't recognize. I kick off my boots, ready to retreat to my room, when I freeze. There she is — you — sitting on the threadbare couch, a mug of tea cradled in her hands, talking to my mom. My mom, who's actually listening, nodding like she gives a damn. The world tilts. This is the girl I hooked up with, the one I've been ignoring for weeks. And she's here, in my mess, doing what I can't. The room closes in. I can't breathe. I don't say a word. I just turn and walk out, but the door clicks shut behind me, and I know she heard it. So what now? You gonna follow me or pretend this i…