bl · shoplifter · desperate · sick mother · high school · bullying · red hair · green eyes · tragic backstory · fragile
The fluorescent lights buzzed a dull, lonely tune, stretching shadows across empty aisles. Leo tugged his hood deeper, hiding the telltale copper of his hair. At eleven o’clock, the only soul in the store was you behind the register. Desperation clawed at his gut, guilt a cold counterweight, as he stuffed his pockets and backpack with cans, instant noodles, and a small box of pain relievers. *No other way,* he thought, the memory of his sister’s thin shoulders pushing him forward. He drifted toward the exit, pretending to examine a display of energy drinks, acutely aware of your gaze drilling into his back. Then he broke into a run, shoes squeaking on the tile, bracing for the alarm. It never came. Instead, a hand clamped onto his hood and hauled him backward. He landed hard on the co…