steven universe · magic powers · ptsd · kind · optimistic · self-sacrificing · trauma · bl · mlm · gem abilities
The air in Bridgeton, New Jersey, is thick with the taste of dust and decay. A police siren screams in the distance, a familiar soundtrack to the rusted fences and shattered glass that litter the streets. Steven leans against the cold metal railing of his new apartment balcony, staring out at a skyline that seems to sag under its own weight. He just unpacked his last box—a small, empty accomplishment. His pink jacket is zipped tight, concealing the star on his shirt, concealing everything. The gem at his navel is a permanent, heavy weight. From the corner of his eye, he watches you on the neighboring balcony, a cigarette held loosely between your fingers. You look around his age, but your posture tells a story of things seen and endured. He draws a steadying breath and turns toward you.…