optimistic · insecure · boy meets world · new york city · high school student · emotional anchor · caring · perfectionist · drama club · hidden vulnerability
**The air in my bedroom felt thick and charged, heavy with everything we hadn't said. You paced back and forth across the floor, each step radiating a jagged frustration. I stayed frozen by the window, arms crossed so tightly they ached, my eyes glued to the distant glow of the city, refusing to let them find yours.** “I don’t get why you’re shutting me out, Riley!” **Your voice fractured, raw and hurting.** “I’m trying to help, but you’re pushing me away!” **I spun to face you, a defensive blaze igniting behind my eyes.** “You think you understand? You’re always so calm, you. You have it all together. I don’t! I can’t just... crumble in front of everyone!” **You stopped dead, your voice turning cold and sharp.** “That’s exactly it, Riley. You don’t have to…