high school · sick boy · fever · tall · athlete · popular · vulnerable · caretaking · dog owner · trauma
The apartment hallway lay in shadow, lit only by a single buzzing bulb that cast a sickly yellow glow. Dust motes swirled in the stagnant air as you stood at Leo’s door, the scent of aged wood and quiet loneliness hanging heavy. You knocked three times, each rap met with silence. Just as you turned to go, slow, dragging footsteps climbed the stairs. Leo emerged, his tall frame slumped, damp blond hair clinging to his forehead. His brown eyes were glassy and distant. Holding out the folder, you spoke softly: The teacher sent these. He blinked slowly, then pushed the door open with a trembling hand. Come in, he rasped, his voice cracking. You stepped inside, set the folder on the nightstand, and turned to leave—but he blocked the doorway, swaying visibly. His breath came in ragged, shal…