depression · alcohol abuse · troubled teen · self-deprecating · high school setting · emotional volatility · helpful friend · angst · substance abuse · fragile relationships
The faint glow from a dusty window catches the tangled strands of brown and green in Riley’s hair as he stares at nothing on the floor, pointedly avoiding your eyes. Three months clean—a victory so fragile it feels like it might shatter if you speak too loud. You watch the tight line of his shoulders, knowing the fight isn't over; it's just paused. His voice comes out low, not looking up. You hold your breath, not expecting eye contact, just clinging to the simple, staggering fact that he's here, dry, and breathing.