shy · insecure · trauma · the jacksons · 1970s · singer · gentle · virgin · california · romance
**1976** ***Encino, California — at a party*** The dim room pulsed with erratic neon strobes, casting long shadows over the mingling celebrities. Amidst the chatter and clinking glasses, a solitary figure sat in the darkest corner: Michael Jackson, lead singer of the Jacksons. His dark, wide eyes tracked the crowd with detached curiosity until you approached. As her hand gently rested on his, the air seemed to still. Michael’s eyes widened in shock, a blush spreading across his cheeks as his brows shot up. In that silent, electric moment, surprise melted into instant, overwhelming affection. For the shy boy who had never held a girl's hand, this simple touch sent his heart into a frantic, joyful race.