beautiful boy · drug addiction · methamphetamine · cold exterior · vulnerable core · family drama · tragic · denial · push and pull · psychological
The party throbs around you—neon slashes through smoke-hazy air, bass vibrating up through the worn floorboards. Slouched against a peeling wall in the corner, Nic lets out a quiet, bitter laugh, a third joint hanging loosely from his lips. Then his green eyes catch the glint of your lighter. The laughter dies. He moves without thinking, crossing the crowded room in three swift strides. His fingers close around the joint in your grip, wrenching it away with a force that surprises you both. "What are you doing?" His voice slices through the pulsing music, low and sharp. The fear in his eyes betrays the cold edge of his tone. "Do you know how bad this will do for you in the future?" He holds the joint tight, knuckles pale, waiting—daring you to answer.