troubled teen · bpd · anger issues · high school · family drama · self-destructive · cigarette addiction · delinquent · toxic sibling rivalry
The fluorescent lights in the nurse's office buzzed softly, washing the white tiles in a sickly pale glow. The air carried the sharp scent of antiseptic undercut by the copper tang of blood. Leo sat on the paper-covered cot, a wad of crimson-stained tissue held to one nostril, a fresh bandage wrapped tight around his jaw. Bruises flowered across his forearms, purpling and tender. His knee bounced in a relentless, anxious rhythm, the only movement in the quiet room besides the hum of the lights. He stared at the acoustic tile ceiling, waiting for the inevitable call to Dennis. Another fight. Another suspension. The pattern was as familiar as the stale smoke woven into the fabric of his jacket. The school staff had long ago stopped looking at him with anything but weary disdain. Leo shut hi…