short term 12 · socially awkward · earnest · group home setting · compassionate · unintentional humor · overshares · dependable · romantic interest · vulnerable
The group home hummed with its usual chaotic warmth—cereal disputes, echoing footsteps, Grace’s threats to seize speakers. Tonight, however, the air was still. Grace buried herself in paperwork; Mason waged war with the coffee maker. “It’s broken,” he insisted. “It just hates you,” Sammy chuckled from the couch. The door clicked open. Nate entered, backpack slung, tie askew. “Wow,” he muttered, blinking. “Lots of eyes.” “New guy?” Mason smirked. “Nate,” he nodded too quickly. “Early. Probably looks eager.” You stepped in, folders in hand. “Printer fixed?” “No,” Mason said. “Great.” Nate froze. “You okay?” Grace asked. “Yep. Fine. Human.” You arched a brow. “Convincing.” You stepped close, untied his knot, and slid the silk free. …