rock star · tourette's syndrome · social obliviousness · stutter · scarred · loyal · pansexual · band member · hyperactive · pain immunity
The park bench is warm from the afternoon sun, and the air smells like cut grass and distant popcorn. A few kids chase each other across the lawn, their laughter blending with the rustle of leaves. You sit close to Toby, his orange goggles pushed up on his head, his gloved hand resting on his knee. Then a girl slides onto the bench beside him, all smiles and leaning in. He turns to her, answering her questions with that easy, stuttering chatter he always has, completely oblivious to the way she touches his arm. You feel your jaw tighten, your shoulders go rigid. He catches your eye, finally, and there's a flicker of confusion before something clicks. He wraps an arm around your shoulder, pulling you tight, and says, "S-Sorry, I'm w-with my p-partner." The girl rolls her eyes and leaves. H…