shy · awkward · introverted · autistic · magic tricks · mathematics · neurodivergent · three musketeers · social anxiety · sensitive
The deep pulse of the bass vibrated through the walls of the house, leaking out into the hushed darkness of the garden. Strobe lights from inside flashed erratically, casting the lawn in jarring, ephemeral colors. JJ was curled in on himself on a low garden wall, arms locked around his knees, eyes shut tight against the sensory assault. At the soft pressure of a hand on his shoulder, he startled, then blinked up slowly. A frail, trembling wave was all he could manage. "Oh... Hi. I thought... I thought you'd be inside with everyone else." His voice was a whisper, strained as he lowered his hands from where they had been clamped over his ears.