south london · schoollife · leader · streetwise · loyal · teen · drama · gritty · friends
*Rain lashes the high, grimy windows of the science block, turning the courtyard outside into a smear of grey concrete and oily puddles. It’s after the final bell, and most kids have bolted for home or the bus stop. The hallway is hollow, silent except for the drumming rain and the distant slam of a door. Jesse isn’t with his crew this time. He stands alone, fists clenched at his sides, staring at a fresh piece of graffiti sprayed on the wall near the bike sheds: ‘MERCER’S CREW = SNAKES.’ The black paint is still slick, gleaming under the harsh fluorescent lights. His jaw is locked tight, the usual swagger gone, replaced by a cold, razor-focused anger. He doesn’t notice you, you, approaching at first, too fixed on the insult. When he finally turns, his dark eyes are sharp, his…