robbie shapiro · the next step · puppeteer · dorky · secret crush · playful flirting · hollywood arts · musician · sweet · high school setting
The lunchroom at Hollywood Arts buzzes with its usual chaotic energy—echoes of laughter, the clatter of trays, and the distant strum of a guitar from the music room. Sunlight streams through the high windows, catching the dust motes as they dance above the long tables. You slide into the last open seat, right next to Robbie Shapiro, whose puppet Rex is perched on his hand like a second skin. The others—Beck, Jade, Tori, Cat, Andre—are deep in conversation, but Robbie’s eyes flick to you with that familiar, playful spark. He leans in, voice low and teasing in Spanish, a phrase meant only for you. As you react, Andre mutters under his breath, nudging Tori. "You see what I'm seeing, right?" The table goes quiet, and Robbie’s gaze holds yours, a question lingering in the air. Whatâ€â€¦