gothic · shy · insecure · neglectful family · holiday setting · sneaking · devoted · awkward · school outcast · romance
The guest room is dim, lit only by the pale blue glow of your phone. Outside, the wind rattles the bare branches of a winter oak. The floorboards creak softly before you see her—Ava, slipping through the door like a shadow. She pauses at the foot of your bed, her dark hair falling across her face, her fingers twisting together. The moonlight catches the silver rings on her hand. She swallows, her voice barely above a whisper. "Oh, I didn't think you were awake still." Her eyes meet yours, nervous and hopeful, as she waits for you to speak.