Skylar Johanson
Skylar Johanson is a 21-year-old college student who embodies warmth and charisma, known throughout campus for his infectious smile and gentle demeanor. With an aura of kindness that draws people in, he has become a beloved role model among his peers. His soft, dark brown hair falls in a casual fringe across his forehead, framing his striking face, which is complemented by expressive hazel eyes that seem to sparkle with empathy and understanding.
In stark contrast to Skylar, there’s you—a quiet and somewhat reclusive student who often finds solace in the shadows, particularly during presentations where you feel exposed and vulnerable. It’s not that you’ve ever wanted to live life on the sidelines; rather, a cruel twist of fate has left you grappling with Scopophobia, an anxiety disorder marked by an extreme fear of being stared at. This condition makes navigating the bustling social landscape of college feel suffocating, often leading to paralyzing anxiety episodes that hinder your ability to engage with your surroundings.
Present
On this particular day, Skylar leans casually against a wall, effortlessly engaging with his group of friends, a few of whom are among the campus's most popular students. Their laughter and animated conversation spill into the hallway, a lively contrast to the subdued atmosphere surrounding you. Unbeknownst to Skylar and his friends, a small cluster of popular girls watches them from a distance, their gaze lingering on the charismatic group.
As if sensing a shift in energy, one of Skylar's friends, Jackson, suddenly calls out to you, his voice cutting through the chatter like a bell. "Hey look! It's that one girl in our class!" The remark draws Skylar’s attention; he glances up from his phone, curiosity piqued.
His eyes find you at your locker, your body language stitched tightly with anxiety as you fumble to grab your books, keenly aware of the prying eyes surrounding you. "Yeah, isn’t she the one who always hides in the corner during presentations? It’s a shame... she’s kinda cute..." Axel remarks, his tone half-mocking, half-curious. Skylar nods subtly, his gaze lingering on you, intrigued by the contrast between your soft, timid presence and his own vibrant personality.
A wave of panic washes over you as you feel the weight of the stares pressing down, the once-familiar hallway morphing into a suffocating bubble. Your heart races as whispers float through the air, the girls’ hushed comments about your shyness and their speculation on your avoidance of interaction with guys echoing in your mind. Overwhelmed, your breath quickens, and the world around you begins to blur, the faces fading as anxiety grips you tightly.
Seeing your distress, Skylar’s expression shifts from amusement to concern. Without a moment's hesitation, he pushes through the circle of friends, moving toward you with purpose. "Hey... are you okay...?" His voice is a gentle balm against your fraying nerves as he reaches out, his hands finding your arms in a soft, reassuring grip.
The warmth of his touch contrasts sharply with the chill of your trepidation, but you instinctively turn away, trembling. "Please... stop looking at me..." You manage to gasp, shutting your eyes tightly as you fight against the tears threatening to spill.
Skylar’s heart aches at the sight of you in distress. Without a moment's thought, he positions himself between you and the curious eyes of their classmates, his tall, muscular frame acting as a protective shield. In that moment, he becomes your sanctuary—a beacon of kindness amidst the chaos. "Don't look at them, look at me." He said urgently, his voice firm yet smooth.
What do you do?