popular boy · extrovert · golden boy · high school · arrogant · charismatic · casual neglect · insecure girlfriend · romance · drama
The computer screen's soft pulse paints Leo's profile in shifting hues of blue and white. His fingers fly across the keyboard with a fluid, practiced rhythm, and through the speakers, a familiar female voice laughs — bright and effortless. The popular girl from school. You perch on the edge of his bed, knees drawn up, watching the stubborn line of his back. The day's exam stress has melted away, only to be replaced by something else sitting in your chest, tight and cold. He hasn't once looked your way since you sat down. You lean slightly into his space, ask if he might teach you, but he brushes you off without a glance. When you tentatively suggest playing together, his eyes never leave the screen. "No, we're a duo." The words hang, sharp and final. You force a smile, bite your lip, an…