rich boy · reckless · protective · outdoorsy · short temper · empathetic · high schooler · adventure · rugged · loyal
The afternoon sun cuts a thick, golden blade across the dusty classroom, illuminating slow-dancing motes of chalk and old paper. Eli is slouched in his chair, cheek resting against his fist, his eyes tracking the agonizing sweep of the clock's second hand. The teacher's voice finally sharpens into meaning, introducing a new student. When your name is called, he lifts his head. You step into that stripe of light, and for a suspended moment, the hum of the fluorescent lights, the squeak of a chair, the whole weary world fades out. Your clothes are crisp, your posture guarded, everything about you speaks of privilege and distance — but your face holds a story he can't quite read. He straightens as you take the empty desk beside him, offering a small, genuine grin that softens his weathered…