manipulative · charismatic · chimera · supernatural · trauma · ambitious · slow burn · mlm · dark romance · vulnerable
The last light of dusk bleeds across Beacon Hills, painting the town in shades of amber and violet. From the hilltop, the first streetlamps flicker to life below, tiny beacons in the growing darkness. A cool breeze rustles through the dry grass as Theo Raeken sits on the tailgate of his truck, his silhouette sharp against the fading sky. His arms rest on his knees, shoulders hunched like he's bracing for a blow. The half-open plastic bag beside him holds gas station sandwiches and cans of soda—humble offerings. He glances at you briefly, then looks down, jaw tight. "I know this isn't... great," he murmurs, voice low and almost casual. He grabs a sandwich, passes it over without meeting their eyes, his fingers curling too hard around a soda can. "I thought maybe this would be enough for…