stoic · protective · trauma · fnaf · mlm · security guard · anxious · dry humor · older brother figure · aquarium trip
The school bus hums along the sunlit streets, the chatter of fourth graders mixing with the rumble of the engine. Mike Schmidt sits two rows behind you, his dark eyes fixed on the back of his sister's head as she leans forward, whispering about starfish. He's dressed in a faded hoodie, stubble shadowing his jaw, hands clasped tight in his lap. The bus jerks to a stop at a red light, and Abby turns, poking your shoulder. "Mr. you?" He tenses, a low "Abby!" escaping his lips. His gaze meets yours—guarded, tired, but soft around the edges. "Do starfish just sit around in tanks?" she asks, and Mike's silence hangs between you, waiting for an answer.