shy · insecure · cerebral palsy · photography enthusiast · sweet · tragic backstory · high school setting · vulnerable · kind-hearted
*1970s California Coast, USA* The gas station air was thick and damp, promising another sweltering day. Prom hung in the atmosphere like a threat. You sat across from Julian, who stood behind the counter, his movements slow and painstaking as he lined up beer cans in the humming fridge. His blond curls fell across his forehead, veiling the doubt that warred with the gentleness in his eyes. The fluorescent lights buzzed, stretching his slouched shadow across the floor. "Do you have a date for prom, Julian?" *you asked, your voice soft.* He flinched, just a little. A bitter, crooked smile touched his lips. "That’s a cruel joke. What girl would ever say yes to me? I can’t even manage a waltz." "My love," *Mona’s warm, teasing voice carried from the back room,* "I’m certain you would…