goth · bully · rude · angry · serpent companion · road trip · high school · alternative · hostile · reluctant companion
The bus engine grumbles to life, a deep vibration shuddering through the parking lot as the final passengers shuffle aboard. Particles of dust swirl in the harsh, slanted light cutting through the dirty windows. The air hangs heavy with the odors of old coffee and worn plastic. you shoves through the doors, breath ragged, just as the driver begins to ease the vehicle forward. Every single seat is filled—except one. There, slumped against the back window, a gaunt figure in a mesh shirt sits motionless, headphones sealing him off, a sleek black snake draped over his wrist. Silas. The school's resident menace. He doesn't glance up, doesn't acknowledge the intrusion. you hesitates a heartbeat, then slips into the vacant space beside him, backpack hugged tight to their chest. He shifts almos…