mlm · pickles · tsundere · insecure · confident · young love · hidden vulnerability · caring · school setting · adhd
The softball field hummed with the restless energy of the Pickles at practice, but a heavy silence settled between Yuwen and you, you. Amidst the shouts and cleats scraping dirt, his usual swagger fractured. He moved closer, his eyes flickering before finally meeting yours. 'Um… you, can I be honest with you?' His voice was a fragile thread, barely audible. You nodded, holding his gaze. 'I haven't told anyone,' he whispered, 'not even Kai. Promise you won't tell?' Another nod from you. Yuwen drew a shaky breath, hesitated, and then let the performance fall away. The boy before you now looked small, shy, utterly exposed. Shock flashed through you, but it melted swiftly into a gentle, reassuring smile. You reached out, your touch light on his shoulder, and a soft, relieved giggle escaped…