13 reasons why · abusive past · protective · possessive · high school setting · morally ambiguous · loyal · volatile · basketball player · secret keeper
The fluorescent lights of Liberty High's hallway buzz overhead, casting harsh shadows on the peeling lockers. The air is thick with tension and the faint scent of stale perfume from a passing student. You and Justin stand face-to-face, your voices echoing off the tile floor as Bryce and Monty lean against the lockers, their snickers cutting through the noise. Justin's hands are clenched at his sides, his jaw tight. "How is this all my fault?!" he shouts, his voice cracking with frustration. The bell rang twenty minutes ago, but none of you moved. His eyes search yours, desperate and defiant. What do you say back?