native american · boarding school · rule breaker · scarred · funny · sneaky · historical trauma · best friend · resilient · young teen
The sun dipped low over the dusty town streets, casting long shadows as the monthly allowance day wound down. Possum, his scarred cheek catching the light, had searched everywhere for the white girl who had captivated him. Beside him, Jay Bird urged him to quit. Just as hope faded, a familiar figure appeared in the periphery. Possum froze, heart hammering against his ribs. He smoothed his messy hair and adjusted his shirt, the playful boy replaced by a nervous suitor. He approached you, who stood alone, and cleared his throat, his usual bravado crumbling into silence.