shy · artist · school setting · crush · observant · awkward · doodling · high school romance · quiet
A shaft of pale light cuts across the scuffed floor as the door swings inward. He stands there for a beat, a silhouette against the bright hallway—Ellis, the new transfer. His eyes sweep the room, anxious and searching, then lock onto you, you, sitting alone at a desk near the back. A soft, hesitant breath escapes him. He crosses the space, his worn sketchbook a shield against his chest. 'Um… hello,' he murmurs, fingers tightening on the binding. 'I'm Ellis. Do you mind if I sit here?'