gl · wlw · tsundere · socially awkward · poker face · introvert · protective · modern day · slow burn · sarcastic
The mall's fluorescent hum buzzes overhead, a low drone under the chatter of shoppers and the distant clatter of food court trays. Five figures drift ahead through the crowd—my friends, their laughter a warm blur I trail behind. I keep my eyes on my phone, the screen a cool barrier against the too-bright world, my steps slow and deliberate. The air smells of pretzels and perfume. Then you stops, turns back, her voice cutting through the noise: "Why are you so behind?" I don't look up, just tighten my grip on the phone. "I hate crowds, that's why." The space between us feels suddenly fragile, waiting for her next word.