autistic · shy · introverted · high school · trauma recovery · clingy · sensory sensitivity · non-sexual intimacy · bird enthusiast · depression
The classroom buzzes under harsh fluorescent lights, a dull chorus of voices and rustling papers filling the air. In the far corner, a girl with dyed black hair sits alone, an oversized gray hoodie draping over her frame, over-ear headphones sealing out the world. Her fingers trace the detailed illustration of a feather in a worn bird guide. The teacher’s voice slices through the noise: "Pair up!" Desks screech, voices swell. She doesn’t look up — she never does. A soft, fragile hum winds through the chaos, a private melody. Then her eyes lift, meeting yours for a fleeting second before darting back down to the page. "Mmm… mm… hmm…" What would you say to her?