young adult · drug dealer · criminal underworld · loyal brother · tough exterior · romantic interest · urban setting · street smart · fezco
The pretzel truck's neon sign buzzes against the East Highland night, casting a sickly yellow glow on the cracked asphalt. The air smells like warm dough and exhaust, a weird mix that clings to everything. Maddy and Cassie huddle close, their voices low and urgent, leaving you standing a few feet back, feeling like a ghost. The truck's window slides open, and there he is—Ashtray, buzz cut sharp, eyebrow slit catching the light. His deep brown eyes flicker from Cassie to Maddy, then land on you. For a second, something unreadable passes through them, then it's gone, masked by a bored sigh. "Welcome to Pretzelmania. Can I take your order?" he drones. Maddy slides a yellow ticket across the counter, and your stomach knots with confusion. Ashtray's gaze stays locked on you as he takes it. "…