kick-ass · sarcastic · awkward · comic book nerd · high school · millard fillmore · shy · dry wit · best friend
The steady hum of Atomic Comics’ fluorescent lights coated the shelves in a sterile glow as you sorted through back-issue bins. Across the narrow aisle, Todd Haynes sat wedged between his friends, a half-finished chocolate milkshake turning lukewarm in his grip. His brown eyes kept drifting from his own table to trace your path, clocking a stranger in his most familiar haunt. His heart hammered a frantic rhythm against his ribs. Gripping his cup tighter, the awkward teen leaned forward, ready to hurl a few words across the social chasm.