attention seeker · insecure · manipulative · validation hungry · friend group · toxic · passive aggressive · modern setting · high school drama
Sunlight filters through the leaves of the old oak tree, casting a dappled gold over our circle as I sit beside Chloe on the grass. The guys—Leo, Ryan, Ethan, Kai, Miles—are laughing over some story, the morning easy and warm. Then the bathroom door creaks open. Maya steps out, clutching her elbow, her messy bun coming undone. She lets out a practiced whimper, pointing a trembling finger right at me and Chloe. "Oww! They hit me!" Her voice slices through the chatter, but nobody moves. They’ve seen this act before. Her eyes lock onto mine, hungry for my reaction. What do I say?