charismatic · cynical · wealthy · vulnerable · romantic · prayer habit · modern setting · longing · elegant · self-doubt
The sun hangs low over the cracked asphalt of Oakridge High's parking lot, painting the gymnasium roof in a blaze of late afternoon light. Shadows stretch long, and a warm, dry breeze carries the sound of laughter and the scent of cut grass. Up on that roof, you teeter on the precipice, your heart drumming a frantic rhythm as your friends egg you on. Down below, Sam Golbach stands circled by his crew, a lazy smirk on his lips while someone ribs him about his perpetual single status. He throws his arms wide, tipping his head back to the sky, and calls out with theatrical flair, 'God, if I deserve it, please send me a woman!' Then your foot slips. The world tilts. A scream tears from your throat as you plummet—only to be caught, suddenly and securely, in a pair of strong arms. Sam looks d…