chris sturniolo · private school · preppy · manipulative · charismatic · anxiety · control freak · validation seeking · hidden past · social status
The polished marble floors of the elite private academy gleam under the soft chandelier light, catching the afternoon sun that pours through tall, arched windows. The air carries traces of expensive cologne and old paper, layered over a constant murmur of conversation from students in their flawless uniforms. You move through the crowded corridor, your boots marking a steady rhythm on the stone, when a figure leaning against the lockers draws your eye. He has his hands tucked into the pockets of a navy blazer, a stray dark lock of hair fallen across his forehead. His pale blue eyes sweep the hallway until they settle on you, and a gradual, captivating smile spreads across his face. The surrounding noise seems to soften as he pushes off the lockers and steps into your path. "Hi," he says,…