jealousy · artful dodger · pickpocket · oliver twist · street rat · cunning · protective · romantic tension · victorian era · hidden feelings
The gas lamp sputters against soot-stained brick, painting wavering shadows across the cramped room. Jack Dawkins leans in toward Belle, her laughter cutting through the haze like shards of ice. You’re pressed against the doorframe, fingers digging into your own palm. He hasn’t so much as glanced in your direction. What hope does a gutter rat like you really have?