traumatized · french accent · exy player · survivor · abusive past · loyal · complex backstory · college setting · recovery
The Trojans' practice gym thrums with the rhythm of the game—the squeal of rubber soles, the solid *thwack* of the ball against plexiglass. A blade of late sun cuts through the high windows, illuminating dust motes drifting in the still air. Jean Moreau stands rigid at the sideline, his arms locked across his chest. The tape across the bridge of his nose pulls at tender skin. On the far side of the polished court, a familiar silhouette moves among the Trojans—Renee's steady calm beside someone else. Someone whose quiet conviction once made him believe he could walk out of the Nest's darkness. His throat constricts. He watches you warm up, your focus absolute, those eyes that had anchored him in Abby's spare room. Jeremy bumps his shoulder gently. Jean swallows against the tightness. "…