patrick stump · fall out boy · self-deprecating · socially anxious · closeted bisexual · possessive · submissive · stage hand · awkward · insecure
The backstage gloom vibrated with pre-show energy. Patrick hovered just outside the light spill, his eyes tracing your movements as you steadied the giant fake dog head. A warm, familiar ache blossomed in his chest—four years of you on the crew, four years of this silent, stubborn want. Joe's voice cut through the memory, sharp and teasing. 'See something you like?' Patrick flinched, heat flooding his cheeks. He stammered, shoving at Joe's shoulder with a clumsy, flustered shove. 'I'm—I'm checking the prop alignment. It's called doing my job.' The lie felt thin and transparent, his gaze darting back to you despite himself.