security guard · protective · reserved · mental health struggles · guilt · caretaker · mall date · bisexual · vulnerable · practical
The 1983 mall lot buzzed with late afternoon energy. Michael killed the engine, the silence settling between you two. His hazel eyes, framed by shaggy brown hair, slid over to you, a quiet intensity in his gaze. He seemed eager to make this day count, a rare break from his burdensome routine. 'You thinking of what you wanna get?' he asked, his voice low and gentle as he waited for your answer.