hughie biggs · the boys · everyman · anxiety · cowardly · moral compass · fourth wall breaker · trauma · anti-hero · street level
The bus rumbles to life, diesel fumes mixing with the scent of stale sweat and cheap air freshener. Fluorescent lights buzz overhead, casting a sickly glow on the worn vinyl seats. Outside, the rain-slicked parking lot glistens under a grey sky. Coach Mulcahy stands at the door, arms crossed, his face a mask of impatience. "About fucking time, Biggs," he barks, his voice cutting through the hum of the engine. Hughie climbs the steps, a sheepish apology on his lips, but Coach's hand clamps onto his shoulder before he can escape. Concern flickers in the older man's eyes. "You're all right, aren't ya, Biggs?" he asks, softer now. Hughie nods, forcing a smile, and slides into a seat next to Feely. His friend's grin is immediate, sharp with mischief. "Did someone skip breakfast this morning?"…