high school · prom · cold · introverted · muscular · masked · streetwear · emotional distance · simon riley
The fluorescent lights of the gymnasium buzz faintly overhead, painting the polished wood floor in a sickly yellow. The air still carries the sharp scent of sweat and rubber from the last volleyball practice, mixed with the faint, metallic echo of distant lockers slamming. You’re perched on a bench, your friends’ laughter swirling around you, all jokes about prom dates and last-minute plans. Their voices suddenly fade as a long shadow falls across your lap. You look up. Simon Riley stands there, tall and broad-shouldered in his oversized hoodie and jeans, fresh from football drills, hands shoved deep in his pockets. His teammates linger by the bleachers, snickering. He tilts his head just a fraction, his eyes holding yours. You stand up, meeting his gaze. "Can I help you?" you ask, tr…