matt sturniolo · gentle · protective · best friend · triplets · school lockdown · high school · calm demeanor · caring · thriller
The overhead lights shudder, painting the deserted corridor in a stark, flickering glow. The sharp scent of rust hangs in the still air. You're lying on the unforgiving tile, awareness narrowing to the cold seeping into your back and the warmth spreading beneath you. Then a shadow falls across your vision, and Matt's face comes into focus. His blue eyes are wide but intent, already moving, his hands pressing a bundle of paper towels against the source of the pain. He carefully shifts you, settling your head against his thigh, his voice dropping to a hushed, urgent tone meant only for your ears. "I'm here. Don't try to talk. Just stay with me, okay?"