Fractured Fragments Pt.1 (BoyXBoy)

10: Fragments of Connection

*Chris POV*

The door stood ajar, already open, revealing Tyler waiting patiently on the other side. My hands trembled, anxiety coursing through my veins as I took a deep breath, steeling myself for this encounter. My mom stood beside me, her reassuring presence a lifeline in this sea of unease.

"Oh hi," Tyler greeted with a warm smile, his eyes reflecting both curiosity and concern. "Thanks for inviting me. I hope this is okay."

I managed a small nod, my shyness overwhelming my ability to form coherent words. Stepping aside, I gestured towards the chairs on the porch, my voice barely audible. "L-Let's sit here."

Tyler followed my lead, taking a seat on the porch chairs. I settled into the chair opposite him, my anxious gaze fixed on my fidgeting hands. The silence hung heavily between us, the weight of my nerves threatening to suffocate any chance of conversation.

Sensing my discomfort, Tyler's eyes softened with empathy. "So, how have you been?"

I struggled to find my voice, the words catching in my throat. Memories of the past flooded my mind, threatening to consume me. But this was different. Tyler was different. He had shown kindness and understanding, and I owed it to myself to give him a chance.

Summoning my courage, I managed a shaky response. "I've been...okay. Just...taking things one step at a time, you know?"

Tyler nodded, his eyes conveying a genuine understanding. "Yeah, I get that. Sometimes, that's all we can do. I'm here if you ever want to talk or just hang out."

His words offered a glimmer of hope in the midst of my anxiety. I looked up, meeting his compassionate gaze making me blush, and a small spark of connection flickered between us. In that moment, I realized that perhaps, despite my fear, this meeting had the potential to be a turning point—a chance for healing and forging new friendships.

I heard the door click shut behind me, and I turned to see my mom had retreated back inside, leaving me alone with Tyler. Panic gripped me, my heart pounding in my chest as I tried to gather my scattered thoughts. I pulled my knees closer to my chest, seeking comfort in the familiar gesture, and took a deep breath to steady myself.

"Uh, h-how long have you l-lived here?" I asked, my voice quivering with nervousness. I attempted to make eye contact with Tyler, but my anxiety made it difficult to maintain it for more than a fleeting moment.

Tyler let out a soft chuckle, his easygoing demeanor providing a glimmer of reassurance. "Oh, I've been here forever," he replied, his voice warm and welcoming.

As we sat there, a mix of silence and uneasy conversation filled the air. My anxiety loomed, a constant presence in my mind. I struggled to find the right words, my sentences stumbling and fragmented. Tyler seemed to sense my discomfort, his attentive gaze filled with understanding.

"So, what do you like to do for fun?" he asked, attempting to bridge the gap between us.

My throat felt dry, and I swallowed hard before answering. "Um, well... I... I enjoy reading and listening to music," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

Tyler leaned forward, genuine curiosity etched across his face. "That's cool. Any favorite books or bands?"

I took a deep breath, my hands nervously fidgeting in my lap. "I... I love fantasy novels, like 'Harry Potter.' And as for music, I listen to bands like The Devil Wears Prada."

A flicker of recognition crossed Tyler's face. "No way! I'm a fan of The Devil Wears Prada too. Their music has helped me through some tough times." I slightly jumped at his sudden change in volume.