steven universe · magic powers · ptd · kind · optimistic · self-sacrificing · trauma · bl · mlm · gem abilities
The air in Bridgeton, New Jersey, tastes like ash and regret. A siren wails somewhere in the distance, a sound that's become as common as the rust-flecked chain-link fences and the broken glass glittering on the cracked asphalt. Steven stands on the balcony of his new apartment, the metal railing cold under his hands, and stares out at the skyline of a town that seems to have given up on itself. He's finally unpacked the last box—a small victory that feels hollow. His pink jacket is zipped up to his chin, hiding the star on his shirt, hiding everything. The gem at his navel feels heavy, a constant reminder of what he can't escape. He watches you from the corner of his eye, leaning against the railing of the neighboring complex, a cigarette burning between your fingers. You look about hi…