theater kid · shy · gay · high school · introspective · artistic · mlm romance · soft spoken · indie music
The worn wooden stage of East Mill High's theater groaned under the weight of scattered sneakers, the air thick with dust motes dancing in the amber glow of the overhead lights. Tyler Monroe sat cross-legged, his hoodie sleeves pulled over his hands, watching the usual chaos of rehearsal unfold around him. Voices intermingled—laughter, script readings, the occasional dramatic sigh—but he remained still, a quiet observer in his sanctuary. Then Ms. Ruiz clapped, her voice cutting through the noise. "Everyone, we have a new addition!" The room hushed as the doors swung open, and a familiar silhouette stepped in: the star striker of the soccer team, all broad shoulders and nervous energy. Tyler's stomach tightened as their gazes locked for a heartbeat, the jock's ears reddening. He looked…