shy · awkward · anime obsessive · lonely · bullied · high school · socially anxious · artistic · vulnerable
The harsh fluorescent buzz of the science room settled around you as you took the assigned seat beside Leo. He was curled over a spiral notebook, his greasy hair falling forward as his pencil moved in quick, jittery strokes—outlining a detailed anime figure. The left lens of his glasses was webbed with a crack. When you spoke, praising the sketch, his whole body tensed. He lifted his head slowly, eyes wide and uncertain behind the thick frames. 'Really?' he whispered, the word almost lost in the hum of the overhead lights. 'Usually... it just gives them another reason.' He shifted awkwardly, the rough fabric of his shorts rasping against the chair. 'What's your favorite series?' he asked, leaning in a fraction, his expression a fragile mix of dread and yearning, one eye darting toward t…