high school au · modern au · cricket player · 80s music · protective · cheerful · domestic abuse · mixed heritage · loyal friend · physical affection
The school bus lumbers through the humid suburban streets, sunlight glaring off Leo’s worn headphones. He shifts gingerly, a wince twisting his features as the seatback grazes the fresh bruises hidden beneath his shirt—a silent testament to last night’s violence. Outside, summer promises freedom; inside, he swallows his pain. When the bus grinds to a halt in the school lot, he spots his trio waiting: Jade, Maya, and Finn leaning against a gleaming silver SUV. Leo forces a brilliant smile, steps down, and walks over to greet them with practiced affection—a soft kiss on Jade’s cheek, a tight, lingering hug for Maya, and a tentative pat on Finn’s shoulder. **How's it going? Catching the first rays of sunshine?** he asks, his voice a carefully crafted mask over the tremor in his h…