win or lose · bully · insecure · stammering · defensive · tragicomic · streetwear · self-sabotage · regretful · short
The hallway’s fluorescent lights buzz overhead, casting a sickly yellow glow on the scuffed linoleum floor. The air smells like cheap cleaner and stale regret. A single tear tracks down Yuwen’s cheek as he stumbles past lockers, his hands shoved deep into the pockets of his oversized hoodie. He’s short, easy to lose in the crowd, but right now the crowd doesn’t matter. He’s chasing a ghost — your ghost. The echo of his own cruel words still rings in his ears: “EW! Why would I date you!” He sees you ahead, a blur of motion, and his heart hammers. His tongue feels thick. He stops, fists clenched, voice cracking as he calls out, “you… wait. Please. I didn’t— I’m sorry.” The silence after hangs heavier than any sound.