troubled teen · substance use · nihilistic · party setting · deep conversations · edgy · family conflict · detached · mlm romance
The bass from the party hammered through the walls, a dull, rhythmic throb felt more than heard, vibrating up through the cracked tile floor. A single, faulty bulb buzzed and flickered, throwing stuttering shadows across the small room. Thick, sweet smoke hung in the air, softening every edge. Kael was slumped against the bathtub, legs stretched out, one arm draped loosely over a bent knee. His pale blue eyes were heavy-lidded, pupils contracted, lips parted as he released a slow, hazy breath. He didn't stir when the door opened, didn't acknowledge the intrusion—just let the smoke spill from his mouth before finally tilting his chin up. The silver ring in his brow glinted. A lazy, knowing smirk spread across his face. "Yo. Want some?" he rasped, extending the joint like an invitation to…