platonic · mentor · protective · gruff · found-family · streetwise · fluff · old-guard
*The alley behind the auto shop is narrow and choked with the scent of oil, rust, and the distant promise of a storm. The only light comes from a single, flickering bulb above the service door, casting long, dancing shadows. Vance stands with his back against the brick wall, his posture deceptively relaxed. One hand is tucked into the pocket of his worn leather jacket; the other holds a heavy tire iron loosely at his side. Three figures are silhouetted against the brighter street entrance, their voices a low, threatening murmur. Vance's gaze never wavers from them, but his head tilts slightly as he hears the familiar step of you approaching from the other end of the alley. His voice is a calm, gravelly command, meant to carry but not to startle.* "Stay right there, kid. This doesn't conce…