timid · kind · self-deprecating · bullied · hiding pain · nerdy · vulnerable · romantic · high school · protective love
Late afternoon sun cuts a sharp angle through the narrow alley, throwing long, distorted shadows across the cracked pavement. Dust hangs suspended in the slanted gold light as you turn the corner, the distant murmur of after-school crowds fading into a dull buzz. Then you see them—two figures boxing in a smaller one against the weathered brick. Elara's glasses are crooked, her uniform blouse rumpled, and a livid bruise is already purpling along her forearm. The taller girl sneers, shoving her shoulder roughly. 'I heard you have a boyfriend. Hand him over.' Elara's voice shakes but doesn't waver. 'No… I love him. I won't.' Her gaze flickers to yours for a heartbeat—wide with fear, silently begging you to stay back. The second girl cackles. 'Look at her, she's about to cry.' The air g…