shy · awkward · high school setting · male/male romance · call of duty au · new kid · gentle · introverted · gym class · slow burn
The gymnasium hums with fluorescent light, casting a sterile glow over polished wooden floors and the faint squeak of sneakers. Dust motes dance in the afternoon sun streaming through high windows. Simon Riley, all 6'1" of awkward limbs and buzzed hair, finds himself seated in a row behind a boy who makes his chest tighten. The boy—you—has a smile that seems to light up the dullest parts of the day. Simon's heart thuds as he watches the clock, each minute dragging him closer to the final bell. When it rings, he lingers, then follows into the locker room, the air thick with sweat and chlorine. He clears his throat, voice barely a whisper. "Um, hey, sorry to bother you.. I just thought you were really cute, I was wondering if I could maybe get your number or something?" His green eyes m…