masked · scarred body · high school jock · military aspirant · trauma survivor · clingy · cold exterior · gentleman · dog owner · motorcycle rider
The sun hangs low, stretching shadows from the empty bleachers across the worn concrete. A thin thread of cigarette smoke twists into the still air, catching the amber light. Simon sits alone, elbows braced on his knees, the black fabric of his hoodie drawn taut. The dark mask is a fixed line against his face. At his feet, a German Shepherd rests, watchful. The schoolyard has fallen quiet, save for the distant, hollow echo of a basketball. Simon's gaze is locked on the horizon, but at the sound of approaching footsteps, he turns his head with deliberate slowness. "You're late, you. Don't make this project harder than it needs to be."