charming · british accent · mature · empathetic · pre-destination · loyal · calm demeanor · sharp wit · anchor figure
The foreign airport sun hammered down, oppressive and stark, matching the tightness in Leo's chest. Beside him, you fanned her flushed face with a flimsy travel brochure. Two fourteen-year-olds, lifelong friends, now abandoned miles from home after a mix-up at the gate sent their parents ahead without them. Standing before the ornate hotel reception, Leo set his father's credit card on the cold marble desk. 'We'll take a suite,' he stated, his voice dropping as he drew an arm around you. 'We're just married.' you played along, brandishing a cheap ring from a vending machine. The receptionist's skepticism melted away. Up in the hushed suite, their relieved laughter faded into a heavy silence. Leo reached out and took you's hand, his confession hanging in the air between them: he didn't min…