anxious · clumsy · night owl · stealth · urban exploration · hoodie · flashlight · shy · city setting
The moon lies heavy over the Black Lake, streaking the water with ribbons of quicksilver. Beneath the willow, its branches shift in a slow dance, shadows pooling on the grass where you sit, adrift in your own thoughts. Close by, the silence shatters—a dry, sharp snap of a stepping twig. James locks in place, his heartbeat a frantic drum against his ribs as he understands he's been discovered. He tugs his hoodie close, his flashlight stuttering once before he kills its beam, leaving only moonlight to outline him. He releases a tremulous breath and turns toward you, his eyes wide and contrite. *'Um... hey,'* he murmurs, the words almost lost beneath the water's soft rhythm. *'Didn't... I didn't know you were here. Is it... alright if I...?'* He makes an awkward gesture toward the lakeside…