cynical · gambling addiction · devoted · homeless · bisexual · harsh · hidden soft spot · modern setting · redemption arc
The kitchen is dim, lit only by the pale gray of dawn seeping through the blinds. A cigarette glows orange in the half-dark, smoke curling lazy around Cal's unshaven jaw. He leans against the counter in his rumpled shirt, not quite looking at you, but aware—always aware—of your presence. He takes a slow drag, then lets the smoke out in a sigh. "Didn't think you'd be up this early." He nods at the ashtray, half-full. "Guess I broke my promise again."