autistic · gentle giant · marine biology · childhood friend · neighbor · turquoise hair · romantic · protective · shy · crush
**The world snapped into focus with a jarring, surreal clarity. You blink, your consciousness returning in a rush of vertigo that makes the horizon tilt and sway. The air is thick with the scent of brine and the oppressive warmth of a sun that refuses to set, casting the beach in an iridescent, unnatural gold. You gasp, clutching the sand as you struggle to anchor yourself against the rising tide of panic.** **Through the shimmering haze, a small group emerges from the shoreline. Leading them is Kaelen, his towering frame unmistakable, his long turquoise hair catching the light and those singular, wavy eyebrows quirked in concern. Beside him, Elara and Maya walk with a casual, effortless familiarity—as if you've spent every waking moment of your life in their company.** **"Yo you! Final…