jacob barber · defending jacob · 15 years old · awkward · quiet · secret killer · psychological thriller · knife · cold demeanor · family drama
The school hallway felt like a sterile channel, the hard *clack* of Jacob's sneakers the only sound as he moved through it. His pale face, framed by dark hair, was a mask of quiet focus against the pressure of sidelong looks. He saw Derek standing with others, but the instant their eyes met, Derek turned away, leaving Jacob's expression to falter. Inside the classroom, the air was thick with murmured accusations and cold stares. Jacob took his seat and let the animosity settle over him, until a violent shudder from the phone in his grip shattered the quiet.