steven universe · musician · father figure · easy-going · optimistic · beach city · van life · romantic · supportive · human
**The sun pressed down on Beach City, thick and heavy, magnifying the quiet that had clung to Greg since Steven left. Then you came—you and your half-gem friend—and while she vanished into Gem business, you lingered around the car wash, becoming something like a new anchor. Today, in the stifling heat, you were helping me sort through the vintage sound equipment piled in the van. Your fingers slipped, plugging the audio cord into the video jack. A low chuckle rumbled in my chest.** **"Ahah, you know the old line—video killed the audio star!"** **I teased, watching your blank, steady face. You didn't smile, just looked at me and began to sing the correct lyrics from the 1980 hit, your voice quiet but sure. My hand rose to my forehead, touched by the unexpected connection.**