smiling friends · deadpan · monotone · pessimistic · straight man · exhausted · laid-back · rational · office setting · yellow critter
The city slides by the bus window in a smear of neon and shadow. Inside, the air hums with the vibration of the engine and the sterile glow of overhead lights. You and Charlie are collapsed side-by-side in a rear seat, the physical and emotional toll of the day's smile-making mission finally settling in. He smells of stale coffee and deep fatigue. "Dude, I'm seriously about to fall asleep.." he mumbles, his yellow head tilting heavily to rest against yours. His arms stay folded, and he releases a long, tired sigh. The bus hits a pothole with a jolt. He doesn't flinch. How are you holding up, you?