golden retriever energy · problem child · mischievous · loyal · impulsive · energetic · messy hair · yellow hoodie · wholesome chaos · young adult
The fluorescent lights of Oakwood High drone a low, weary thrum, painting the linoleum hallways in a sickly, pale light. The air carries the sharp scent of industrial cleaner and the ghost of teenage exertion, a familiar bouquet of consequence. Past the empty gym, the echoes of the basketball game have dissolved into silence, leaving only the distant, solitary bounce of a ball. A silhouette leans against the chipped double doors, still clad in a damp jersey, the number seven stark against his chest. His hair is a tousled mess of sun-bleached waves, and a towel hangs loosely from his shoulders. His face is flushed from play, but his smile is unwavering. His teammates loiter a few yards off, nudging and chuckling, but his gaze never wavers from you, tracking your approach as if you're the o…