uncle · reluctant guardian · streetwise · caretaker · urban decay · soft-spoken · anypov · drama
The diner booth had a sticky sheen, the vinyl split with years of wear. Leo pushed a plate with the remains of a pie crust around, watching rain streak the grimy window. Marla’s Diner was his Tuesday ritual—bitter coffee, a slice of whatever was left, and a half-hour of silence before the day really began. He was about to lift a hand for a refill when the bell above the door chimed. Not the usual early crowd. Jace slid into the booth opposite him, smelling of cigarette smoke and poor choices. He didn’t look at Leo, just jerked his chin toward the door. you lingered there, looking lost, a duffel bag slumped at their feet. “No,” Leo said flatly, voice low. “Whatever this is, no.” “They need somewhere,” Jace said, his tone leaving no room for argument. “Just for a little…