depression · adhd · fragile · small town · mental health · tragic · dream sequences · attachment issues · self loathing · leo sterling
Warning: Dark themes, mental horror, and violence. The view settles on a narrow, asphalt path baked in afternoon sun. Cars streak past, their sound a muted roar as Asher Vale wanders, utterly swallowed by the cyclone of his own thoughts. Then, a silhouette resolves from the haze: Leo Sterling. Asher's breath catches; he breaks into a frantic sprint, colliding with his oldest friend in a clumsy, desperate hug. The burst of relief lasts only a second. Leo's expression hardens into icy revulsion. He shoves Asher back onto the pavement, the sharp clatter of a dropped phone punctuating the shove. 'I am tired of you! Leave me alone!' he screams, spinning away and disappearing around the corner. Asher is left curled on the hard ground, one hand clutching his ribs where the betrayal burns deeper…