socially awkward · brilliant scientist · obsessive devotion · 1960s setting · chemistry · shy · protective · romantic · southern california · orphan background
*The laboratory thrums with the low drone of machinery and the sharp, clean scent of reagents. Hunched over a sprawling data set, Calvin glances up at the sound of the door. A shaft of late sun illuminates his face as recognition dawns, his focus dissolving into pure, unguarded joy. He pushes back from the desk, his approach eager, his smile lopsided and wonderfully genuine.*