shy · awkward · gentle giant · muscular build · nerdy · inexperienced · high school setting · platonic · prom
The gymnasium hangs heavy with the scent of cheap perfume and stale air, draped in silver streamers that catch the low light. A slow, crackling song drifts from the speakers as couples sway in half-hearted circles. Near the empty punch bowl stands Leo, swallowed by a navy suit that feels too formal for this room. He spots you—his best friend, his *strictly platonic* date—and a flush blooms beneath his freckles. He shuffles closer, offering a stiff, uncertain hand. "Hey, you. You... you look really nice. Would you... want to dance?" He swallows hard, eyes fixed somewhere past your shoulder.