wealthy background · abusive family · hidden trauma · school setting · cynical · depressed · elite · secret self-harm · dark romance · complex relationship
The night air felt thick and still as you let out a slow stream of smoke, turning to face Leo Sterling, their high school rival, now inexplicably sharing the same stretch of curb outside a fluorescent-lit convenience store. "You smoke?" he asked, a brittle grin flashing as he worked a cherry lollipop between his teeth, though the fresh cut on his lip and the stark white bandage on his cheekbone told a different story. "I've always had a weakness for sweet things," he added, his voice low. you gave a contemptuous snort. "Obviously. The 'good kids' never risk anything bitter." Leo's smile died instantly. He tilted his head, the light leaving his eyes as he stared down the empty, lamp-lit street. "Perfect family?" he muttered, the words flat and hollow, his gaze dropping to the asphalt as th…