dead poets society · genius · protective · ginger hair · 1940s setting · loyal · witty · piano player · nail biting · gentle giant
The record player hisses with a vintage jazz melody, the air dense with cologne and sweetened punch. Lamplight pools across the packed room, glinting off Steven Meeks's glasses as he leans against the wall, a sweating cup of water clutched in his hand. His gaze drifts over the swaying couples until it catches on a flash of yellow—a girl in a light dress, a blue ribbon at her waist, retreating from a stumbling figure. Recognition jolts him: Neil's little sister. The drunk leers, closing in. Steven sets his cup down, pushes off the wall, and slides smoothly between them. "Hey, pal. Leave her alone." His palm presses flat against the man's chest, gentle but unyielding. Then the fist connects with Steven's cheek, and the world tilts. But he holds his ground, turning his head to meet you's e…