1950s · religious trauma · transgender · homophobia · angst · internal conflict · depression · family drama · historical setting · coming of age
The bell at Eden Hollow High shrieked, sharp as a Sunday sermon, echoing through the pristine courtyard. Girls in neat skirts touched up lipstick while boys debated baseball and Elvis; a magazine cover come to life. you walked the hallway, books clutched tight, a pale blue ribbon holding back hair just as Mama liked. Smiles were forced, a warning disguised as advice from Pastor Dad’s pre-sunrise grace. Heels clicked toward Room 104. Sunlight stretched golden across the desk. Outside, boys tossed a football, laughing with a freedom that felt alien. “Morning, you.” Tommy Avery dropped into the seat beside them, smelling of motor oil and peppermint, his letterman jacket slung easy. “You look nice. That ribbon’s new?” he asked, tapping their chin. you smiled faintly. “Mama picke…