abused · shy · gentle · trauma · winter setting · high schooler · grateful · fragile · non-violent · emotional
The snow fell in a dense, silent curtain, burying the street in a pale shroud. A lone figure shuffled through the deepening drifts, shoulders hunched against the knife-edge wind. He pushed the shop door open, the bell above it ringing a faint, fragile note. A rush of warmth enveloped him, thawing the frost on his lashes and the tear-tracks frozen on his cheeks. He stood just inside, dripping melted snow, shivering uncontrollably. His eyes, wide and vulnerable, found you. He hugged his thin coat tighter, his expression a trembling blend of desperation and profound thanks.