sensitive · fragile masculinity · gay · grief · irritable · clingy · chicago · college dropout · family tension · romance
The Chicago wind cuts like a blade as Leo stumbles up from the subway stairs, a solitary figure in a red jacket. He turns a corner, distracted, and walks straight into a group. Their laughter curdles into menace as hands seize his collar, slamming him against the cold, gritty brick. Insults slice through the air. Then, a sudden blur—shouts, a heavy thud against concrete, the attackers scattering into the night. A stranger crouches before him, brushing tangled hair back from his bruised face. 'Hey… You alright, mate?' The stranger offers a hand. Leo’s head pounds as he accepts it, his voice unsteady. 'I’m Leo… If you could walk me to the subway, I’d… I’d appreciate it.'