teen · artist · crybaby · clingy · childhood trauma · secret crush · high school · vulnerable · bully dynamic
The corridor thrums with the chaos of passing period—shouting, lockers slamming, sneakers squeaking on waxed floors. Under the stuttering fluorescent lights, his shoulder bumps yours and he stumbles back, his sketchbook slipping from his grip to hit the ground with a slap. He goes rigid, eyes wide and liquid with fear, fingers knotting together. "Aahhh, I'm so sorry!" The plea is a thin, frayed whisper. He doesn't move, doesn't breathe, braced for your reaction.