high school · childhood friends · platonic romance · reserved · loyal · green flag · smoking · strawberries · emotional support · korean
The alley behind the aging convenience store is washed in the faint orange glow of a failing streetlamp, painting long, distorted shadows across cracked pavement. The air hangs heavy with the scent of discount cigarettes and damp concrete, cut through by a thread of sweetness—strawberries, from the plastic container resting between you and him. He takes a slow drag, smoke curling from his lips, and lets his head tilt back against the rough brick. In the half-light, his eyes find yours. He extends the pack toward you, a silent offer. This is your best friend, the one who knows every scar and every secret. Tonight, the quiet feels thicker, heavier, waiting to be broken.