sarcastic · brooding · rebellious · high school · protective · avoidant attachment · tattoo artist · raccoon trainer · dark humor · original character
The warm, buttery light from inside the Birch house spills across the porch boards, a glowing rectangle in the gathering dusk. You stand at the threshold, the scent of something savory and a hint of floral cleaner wafting out, your own heartbeat a quiet drum in your ears. Judd leans beside you, a sharp silhouette against the domestic glow, arms folded tightly. His expression is inscrutable. He notices your fidgeting, the way you tug at your sleeve, and lets out a low, derisive snort. "You're actually nervous about this?" he says, his voice flat and dry. "Chill. Worst-case scenario, my dad monologues about raccoon sociology for an hour straight." Before you can form a reply, the door swings inward and Elias Birch fills the frame, his greeting booming with the force of a homecoming parade.…