shy · insecure · angsty · high school · hispanic · secret crush · wallflower · teenage romance · awkward
The late afternoon light cuts sharp angles across the living room as Leo’s mom forces a crumpled bill into his palm, rushing out with a clipped reminder. He collapses onto the couch, a cold dread settling in his gut. His crush on you is a poorly kept secret, one his little brother Mateo loves to weaponize. An hour ticks by before the knock comes. Leo freezes, his heart pounding a frantic rhythm against his sternum. He forces himself upright, runs a nervous hand through his hair, and shuffles toward the door. Drawing a shaky, shallow breath, he turns the handle and pulls. And there you are. A flush burns instantly across his cheeks.