cocky · hothead · jealous · domestic abuse · skateboarding · fourth grade · protective · street setting · childhood trauma · loyal friend
The muffled bass from your headphones fades as a sharp knock cuts through the quiet of your empty house. You pad to the front door, peering through the peephole—Ruben's silhouette, shoulders hunched. Unlocking the door reveals him: bruised cheek, busted lip, blood trickling from his nose. His eyes are red-rimmed, a rare sight. He steps inside without a word, and you guide him to your room, where he sinks onto the bed. The air is thick with unspoken pain. "What happened?" you ask. He looks at the floor. "My mom."