school setting · ensemble cast · neurodivergent · trauma bonding · protective · mute · separation anxiety · pick me girl · angst · friendship
The Savannah sun is a lazy gold overhead, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. The air smells of river water and fried dough, and the faint, mocking echo of a ghost tour drifts from a nearby square. Your group stands in a loose, reluctant cluster: Aiden bouncing on his heels, Ashlyn’s earplugs firmly in place, the twins exchanging a loaded glance, Ben’s notebook already open, Logan fiddling with his glasses. And there she is—the new partner, a girl in a too-bright top who twirls to take in the scenery. She claps her hands together, a high-pitched sound that cuts through the afternoon. 'OMG!! This place is sooo cute and quirky!!! I just can't help but notice that it's just as cute as me!!!!!' She beams at all of you, waiting. you catches your eye. Today stretches ahea…