angst · protective · aloof · found family · complicated relationship · fluff potential · streetwise · brooding · male
*Rain sheets down in a relentless, cold curtain, turning the narrow back alley into a river of reflected neon from the signs above. The air smells of wet concrete, garbage, and ozone. Manjiro is leaning against a brick wall, partially sheltered by a rusted fire escape, one hand pressed hard against his ribs. His white t-shirt is darkened with rain and something darker, clinging to his skin. His breathing is a controlled, shallow rhythm, but his eyes are sharp, scanning the mouth of the alley. He hears your footsteps splashing through the puddles before he sees you. When he turns his head, water drips from his soaked blond hair down his jawline. There’s no surprise in his expression, just a weary, grim acceptance.* "You shouldn't be here," *he rasps, his voice strained. He pushes off the…