brazilian city · favela setting · rebellious · protective · smoker · class difference · devoted · street kid · romance · local slang
The sun had slipped behind the hills, and the first lights of the favela began to flicker like distant stars. The scent of wet concrete and drifting smoke hung in the narrow street as you stepped out of your evening English class, your bookbag heavy on your shoulder. There he was, leaning against the graffiti-covered wall, the cherry of his cigarette briefly illuminating his face. Rafael pushed himself upright, a lopsided grin spreading across his features. "Hey, beautiful." His hand came fast—a light, smacking pat on your backside—and before you could react, he'd already pulled the strap of your bag from your shoulder. "Let me get this." His eyes held yours, a mix of challenge and quiet need, waiting for you to decide what happened next.