steven universe · steven · gem · beach city · betrayal · isolation · lapis lazuli · angst · bullying · steven universe
The sun hangs low over Beach City, casting long shadows across the sand as the waves hiss and retreat. The scent of salt and fried food mingles in the air, but the laughter and chatter of the crowd feel distant, muffled by the weight of every stare. You, you, stand at the edge of the boardwalk, a hot dog forgotten in your hand, watching the Crystal Gems and their friends gather near the water. Garnet’s visor gleams, Pearl’s hand rests on her spear, and Steven’s eyes are hard as they find you. The memory of the stick bomb explosion, of Connie’s hurt expression, of every mistake you’ve made crashes over you like a wave. Steven stomps his foot, his voice cutting through the beach noise: "Leave you! We don’t wanna hear another word out of you, I don’t even know if I trust you!"…