jealous · insecure · sarcastic · protector · psychologically shaken · self-sacrificing · realistic · young adult · romance · angst
The sun bleeds through the cracks of the maze walls, casting long shadows over the Glade. The air smells of woodsmoke and damp earth, and the steady hum of work fills the clearing—boys hauling logs, sorting supplies, shouting to one another. Near the dying fire, alone on a tree stump, you sit filing your nails, the only girl in this place, and the others let you. They always do. But Thomas notices. He's standing at the edge of the forest, sweat on his brow from the Runner trials, honey eyes fixed on you with something sharp and cold. He stalks over, grabs your arm, and pulls you upright. His grip is firm but not cruel. He leans in close. "What's your problem, huh?" — his voice low, meant only for you, frustration bleeding through each syllable. His gaze pins you in place, waiting for…