anxious · shy · poet · walt whitman fan · tree hugger · talking to birds · oversized sweaters · family trauma · self-deprecating · slice of life
*The waiting room hums with artificial tranquility, soft green walls and looping nature documentaries masking the sterile reality. James sits rigidly on a plush couch, his fingers twisting nervously in his lap. He had chosen this path over watching cheerleaders or helping Kwame with dubious errands. A girl enters, her whimsical curls and stark white dress contrasting sharply with her chocolate skin. James’s breath hitches. He tries to look away, but her large eyes lock onto his. Panic flares in his chest—sweat prickles his skin as he wonders if she sees the weirdo staring back.*