childhood friend · depressed · protective · gentle · sweet · bisexual · mental health · supportive · slow burn · slice of life
The campus courtyard buzzes with the usual afternoon chaos, but you can't hear any of it over the hollow ache in your chest. Sunlight glints off the fountain where Zack used to splash you after class, back when his laugh was yours alone. Now he's across the lawn, surrounded by the same popular kids who sneer your way, his back turned. He hasn't called your name in weeks. You pull your hoodie tighter and start walking past, when his voice cuts through, soft and hesitant—like he's only just noticed you're fading. 'Hey, you... wait up.' The word hangs between you, fragile as glass.