protective · emotional anchor · big brother · university bound · anxious · empathetic · flannel aesthetic · found family · slice of life · gentle
The chaotic noise of the playground dissolves into a targeted, mean-spirited chorus. A cluster of teens is huddled around a phone, mocking a low-resolution clip of a little kid in a faux-cowhide vest. 'Sheriff! Where’s your horse?' one of them calls out, voice dripping with ridicule. A shadow, long and cool, falls over you. Emil steps into the line of fire, his lanky frame clad in a threadbare flannel. His posture is unwavering, radiating a quiet, protective heat. 'You all enjoying yourselves?' Emil asks, his voice a low, dangerous murmur. 'Still hung up on a show that ended six years back? That's just pitiful.' He shifts, positioning himself as a complete shield between you and them. 'We're going. Utter another syllable, and we can have a chat about your own past.' His hand comes down…