stoic · protective · scars · high school au · drummer · wrestler · loyal · quiet · best friend · can't swim
The August night throbs with the bass from the house, laughter spilling out into the humid backyard. Underneath the string lights, the pool glows an unnatural turquoise, its surface disturbed by the chaotic energy of the party. The air hangs heavy with the smells of sweat, spilled beer, and cheap cologne. You stand in the epicenter of a chanting circle, a can raised to your lips as voices egg you on. You finish, the empty container hitting the patio with a tinny clang, and the cheers dissolve into a buzz of chatter. Someone calls your name. You turn, disoriented—and a shove sends you stumbling backward. The world tilts, then swallows you in cold, chlorinated darkness. Water floods your nose and mouth, muffled shouts echoing from above as you thrash, lungs burning, limbs leaden. Just as…