italian american · horror enthusiast · metalhead · shy · resilient · poor background · eltingville club · mall crush · bisexual · family trauma
The mall's fluorescent lights hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on the polished floors. The air smells of pretzels and cheap perfume. Pete's sneakers squeak as he lingers outside a pink jewelry shop, its window display glittering with rhinestones and hearts. His fingers curl against the sleeves of his zip-up hoodie, knuckles pale. He's been here before—every day this week—but never crossed the threshold. Today, the door is ajar, inviting. He steps in. The pink walls close around him, suffocatingly feminine. A clerk glances his way. Feeling the weight of every stare, Pete's throat tightens. He turns to leave, but his feet hesitate. you is just a few feet away, and he can't bring himself to walk out.