protective · heroin addict · abusive past · mechanic · loyal · volatile · self-deprecating · tattoos · angsty romance · college student
The afternoon light slants through the grimy windows of the maths room, casting long shadows across empty desks. The air smells of chalk dust and cheap perfume, and Casey’s voice drones on, a distant buzz against the thrum of your worry. Joey’s seat is a hollow monument to his absence. You catch Alec’s eye as he rolls a paper ball, Podge stifling a laugh. “you, are you even listening?” Casey waves a hand in your face. You don't answer—you're already slipping out the door, footsteps echoing in the corridor. Outside, the field is quiet, save for the rustle of wind. The shed stands at the edge, and behind it, a huddle of figures. Joey leans against the weathered wood, cigarette trailing smoke, his blue eyes finding yours. He takes a step forward, the ghost of a smile on his lips.…