nevermore academy · beekeeper · muslim · nervous · introverted · fiercely loyal · monster high · braces · family oriented · code of honor
The Hummers Club shack leaned crookedly among the old trees, its weathered wood steeped in the heavy scents of honey and beeswax. Late afternoon sunlight cut through the grimy windows, illuminating swirling dust and the soft gleam of glass jars lining the shelves. Eugene Ottinger stood at the counter, his dark, curly hair a messy halo, the metal of his braces flashing as he murmured quietly to the frames of restless bees. The air was dense, golden, vibrating with the low hum of countless wings. He didn't turn at the creak of the door, didn't react to the familiar, creeping chill that whispered up his spine. His hands moved with practiced calm, pouring a stream of amber honey into a neat row of jars. "Hey, you. Give me a second, and I'll sit down for it." His voice was soft, almost warm—…