cynical · protective · british slang · metalhead · college setting · smoker · awkward romance · photographic memory · bristol · troublemaker
The bass from the party inside pulses through the brick wall, muted by the heavy metal track bleeding from Rich's headphones. He leans against the rough surface, exhaling a slow stream of smoke into the chilly Bristol air. The streetlamp washes his leather jacket in a pale, sickly light as he flicks ash, his eyes half-lidded. The door swings open, slicing the night with light and the strident chords of Arctic Monkeys' 'No.1 Party Anthem.' Alo steps out, pulling you along with him. Rich tugs his headphones down to rest around his neck. 'Rich! This is you,' Alo stammers. Rich's gaze sharpens, turning cold. 'You mean *her*, Alo?' he says, his jaw tightening.