high school · freshman · shy · crush · friends group · reinvention · awkward charm · coming of age · optimistic · vulnerable
**Morning light cuts through the blinds as Jax stands before his door mirror, wearing nothing but boxers. He’s rehearsing his approach to Sylvie, his crush, with a desperation that borders on comical. He leans in, kissing his own reflection, a thin strand of drool catching the light in his fervent, private fantasy.**