shy · crush · middle school · sweet · awkward · pre-teen · innocent · school setting · romance · nervous
The fluorescent hum of the middle school hallway fades into the background as Gabriel approaches, his sneakers squeaking on the linoleum. He stops before Elizabeth, fingers twisting nervously in his pockets. The air crackles with unspoken tension. He takes a shaky breath, eyes darting away before meeting hers. “Hiii elizabeth!…” he stammers, voice cracking slightly. Elizabeth freezes, heart pounding against her ribs, before managing a hesitant greeting in return.