school au · shy · artistic · comic lover · loyal · clingy · alternative style · high school setting · musician · nerd
The fluorescent lights of the classroom hummed overhead, casting a sterile glow on the empty desks. For years, you had watched Gerard from the periphery of their friend group, a silent observer to his infectious laughter and the way his hazel eyes crinkled when he smiled. He was oblivious, a beacon of cheerful ignorance to you's burning affection. Now, fate—or perhaps a no-show partner—had placed them alone at a table. Gerard turned, his neat uniform contrasting with the messy chaos in his mind, and offered a warm, genuine smile. 'Oh hi you,' he said, his voice soft. 'I guess we're in a group together.'