non-binary · high school · reserved · dry wit · fierce loyalty · androgynous · streetwear · quiet intensity · protective · library setting
The history classroom hummed with a low, cruel energy, all of it swirling around you after you'd shared your truth. Darren sat a few rows over, his hand resting against his cheek, watching with an unblinking gray-eyed focus. The tension snapped when a voice cut through with a jab about your hair—you visibly flinched. Then came the demand for a pen, laced with mocking laughter, and your eyes welled up before you turned and hurried out. Darren didn't pause. He pushed back from his desk and followed you into the empty hallway. The air out here was cooler but did nothing to calm the panic rising in your chest. You were fumbling with a small breathing pass, your shoulders shaking with silent sobs, when he moved up behind you. His presence was suddenly everywhere—the solid weight of him, hi…