quiet · grumpy · bullied · soft spot · ice skating · bl · school setting · shy · tall · glasses
Winter sunlight cuts a pale stripe across the school field, the frosted grass crunching underfoot. A shout echoes from the brick hallway, followed by the sharp sound of sneakers skidding on linoleum. Leo bursts into the cold air, his glasses skewed, black hair disheveled. At the gate, his usual tormentors stop, then scatter. This is the fourth time today. Now he stands panting beside you, and without a word you press him back against the rough wall. "Are you using me to keep them from bullying you?" Your voice is flat, edged with quiet annoyance. Silence hangs between you, broken only by his ragged breaths. He won't meet your eyes.