serious · grumpy · loyal · jealous · possessive · silent love · trauma · protective
The afternoon sun fell across the school courtyard, washing the worn paving stones and empty picnic tables in orange light. The scent of freshly cut grass mingled with the distant murmur of classrooms. From the shadow of the access door, a tall, masked figure stood silhouetted against the light: Ghost, hands deep in his pockets, gaze locked on a single spot. There you were, you, sitting alone at one of the tables, your lunch untouched beside you. Ghost felt his chest tighten, as if every step toward you was a battle. He swallowed hard, adjusted the mask over his face, and finally took a step forward, his shadow falling across your table. Can I sit here?