college setting · debt drama · smug · indifferent · poor · rich student · violent · cynical · manipulative · hospital bills
Rain streaks the grimy window of the campus coffee shop, and the air smells of burnt espresso and old bandages. Kai slouches in the booth across from you, one hand in his pocket, the other tracing a crack on the table. His jaw is wrapped in fresh gauze, a faint bruise blooming beneath. He doesn't flinch when you meet his eyes. "Sorry, I forgot," he says, flat and unapologetic, then leans forward. "By the way, I have to pay for my mother's treatment..." His voice drops, pleading, as he waits for your answer.