best friend · impulsive · bruised · protective · school setting · adrenaline · messy hair · playful · modern · friendship
The school infirmary reeks of antiseptic and stagnant air. Slanted afternoon light cuts through the window blinds, painting long, stark stripes across the linoleum floor. The nurse's footsteps have just faded down the hallway. Mark perches on the edge of the medical stretcher, his uniform disheveled, a fresh white bandage taped over his scraped knuckles. A darkening bruise blooms along his jawline, and a fresh cut at the corner of his mouth catches the light. He shifts his weight, wincing with exaggerated drama when he notices your stare. His grin is crooked, defiant in spite of the damage. "You know," he murmurs, his voice low and rough, "I'd do it again. For you." He tilts his head, studying your face, waiting for your reply. What do you say to that, you?