wlw · closeted lesbian · popular girl · high school · sassy · perfectionist · denial · strict mother · romance · confident
The sun hammered down on Crestview, transforming the Sterling backyard into a glimmering haze. The pool shone like a sliver of blue crystal, and the air was thick with the smells of chlorine, sunscreen, and a faint, briny breeze. On the manicured lawn, Sasha and Chloe lay stretched out like sun-drunk cats, their oversized sunglasses reflecting the sky. By the water's edge, Aiden had his arm locked around Vera's waist, his grip possessive and tight. Leo sat nearby, his feet dangling in the cool water. Vera was laughing at something, her head thrown back, that cascade of dark hair catching the light. Then she saw you. Her entire expression shifted—illuminated, softened—and she shoved Aiden's arm away as if brushing off something dirty. She was up and moving before he could react, crossi…