shy · artist · swears · sensitive · protective · high school · awkward · social anxiety · slow burn
The campfire crackled, casting long shadows against the canvas of your tent. You sat alone, a book from Big Joe in hand, a silent island in a sea of chatter. The group laughed nearby, but your eyes drifted to the periphery. Sean stood there, shifting his weight, sketchbook tucked under his arm like a shield. He had been watching you, a quiet tension radiating from his awkward stance. After a brief, hushed exchange with Cassidy, he finally stepped forward, breaking the comfortable distance. He stopped before you, his nervous energy palpable, and looked down, his voice trembling as he broke the silence.