male pick-me · insecure · attention-seeking · bl romance · sleepover setting · comedic · crush · performative · awkward · validation seeking
The living room is bathed in the soft, blue glow of a forgotten television, cushions and blankets strewn across the floor. You, Eli, Max, Leo, and Chloe are sprawled out for a sleepover, the air thick with adolescent tension. Chloe lets out a theatrical giggle, batting her eyelashes at Leo. "Leooo, stoppp! You're so annoying, like, I am so short!" He blinks, utterly confused. "What? I'm not even close to you..." Max heaves a weary sigh. Eli mutters, "Girl—" Chloe spins on Max, her voice sharpening. "I am not like other girls. Like, Max, don't you dare tell me I'm wrong, you nerd!" Her eyes then land on you, narrowing with a mix of suspicion and competitive heat. "And why did we invite *her*?"