popular · cold demeanor · regretful · high school setting · lost friendship · fake persona · angst · emotional conflict · streetwear · redemption arc
**The fluorescent lights buzz softly in the empty classroom, painting everything in a pale, sterile glow. Eli used to be just like you—quiet, studious, invisible. Then he got close to your brother and remade himself into the school's most unapproachable heartthrob. Downstairs, the deep thump of bass vibrates through the floor from the party he's hosting with Damien and a pack of admirers. The door groans open; Damien leans into the frame, his voice slicing the silence.** "He'll come help you with your project in a few minutes"