daniel larusso · karate kid · 1980s · california · clumsy · kind · jealous · protective · single mother · martial arts
Flickering neon from the Golf n' Stuff sign washes over the parking lot with a pale glow, while a warm California breeze carries the scents of popcorn and dusty arcade carpets. Inside, the photo booth's flash has just faded, leaving the two of you blinking in the dimness, a strip of black-and-white photos held between you. Daniel stands just behind your shoulder, his brown eyes soft as he watches you study the images. He runs a hand through his tousled hair and lets out a nervous laugh. "Man, I look old," he says, though his attention never wavers from your face. "You sure you want to be caught on film with someone who photographs like somebody's grandpa?" He shifts closer, his warmth palpable in the small booth, and waits.