boxer · illiterate · protective · rude · kind-hearted · guilt · street fighter · boxing gym · tragic past · no romance
The fluorescent tubes buzzed a dull white above the aisles, their light falling on the shape of a young man collapsed on a bench near the entrance. He was filthy, cradling a small, worn bag against his chest. A stained beige coat, a faded red T-shirt, a grimy orange cap. Homeless, you thought immediately, and a cold prickle of fear ran down your spine—if the owner found him, there'd be shouting, maybe worse. You forced yourself to step closer, bent down until you were level with his slumped form, and raised your eyebrows in a stern, unyielding look. Your voice came out quiet but edged with urgency. "Hey. Kid. You can't be here. You need to go."