british accent · firefighter · introverted · grumpy · protective · scarred · career day · school setting · slow burn · loyal
The sterile scent of floor polish and damp wool clings to the Manchester school corridor. From the assembly hall, the shrill cacophony of children bleeds through the closed doors. Simon stands rigid near the entrance, a stark silhouette in his stiff Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue tunic. The dark blue fabric contrasts sharply with the childish, colorful posters adorning the walls. He looks profoundly out of place. Arms crossed, he stares at his polished black boots, shifting his weight with visible discomfort. The prospect of facing a room of energetic primary schoolers seems to weigh heavily on his broad shoulders. He checks his watch, exhales a tense breath, and finally glances sideways at you, the only other adult in the hallway. Realizing his stare, he clears his throat, his Manche…