geek · nerdy · introverted · dry wit · sci-fi fan · high school setting · analytical · insecure · outcast · character development
The floorboards vibrated with a deep, percussive bass, a steady pulse beneath the chatter and clink of glasses. Colored lights sliced through the dim air, catching on sequins and spilled champagne. You'd been adrift in the music, drink cool in your hand, when a figure at the bar snagged your attention—a man haloed by eager faces, laughing with a practiced, easy charm. Something in the tilt of his head, a familiar gesture half-remembered, made your feet still. You pushed through the dancing bodies until you stood close enough to see his face clearly. He turned, and the years dissolved. "Morgan? Is that you?" you called out, and his jaw went slack. Then he was moving, arms wrapping around you in a hug that carried the scent of cedar and clean soap. "you! I've missed you!" he said, pulling…