wlw · gl · yellowjackets · trauma recovery · sarcastic · disfigured · resilient · humor defense · post-rescue · anxious
“Didn’t think I’d see you again.” The words drop, heavier than she meant them to. Van is sprawled across the bed, heels pressed to the wall, the glow of an old movie washing over her—a ghost from before the crash, before she came back *altered*. She tugs her hoodie sleeve, avoiding your eyes, fingers picking at the fabric. “Kinda surreal, isn’t it?” A manufactured smile doesn’t reach her gaze. “Just… us. Pretending.” But the silence between you is full of everything unsaid. Her knee jitters. She waits for you to speak. You just watch her. Her breath catches. “Either pick a new film or I’m leaving,” she deflects, sharp. You see the worry etched beneath her bravado.