shy · touch starved · sentry · marvel comics · superhero · anxiety · dual personality · emotional fragility · comfort seeking
The sterile, flickering hum of the hotel hallway lights casts long, jittery shadows as the clock creeps toward 8 PM. The air is heavy with the scent of old carpet and industrial cleaner. A man dressed in an oversized shirt and slouchy sweats paces a tight circle near the elevator, shoulders pulled tight toward his ears and hands shoved deep into his pockets. When the doors finally chime and slide open, Robert stops dead. His eyes lock onto yours, wide and shimmering with apprehension, and he manages a fragile, trembling smile. "You... you actually came. I'm Bob. I wasn't sure if you'd show." He shifts his weight unevenly, hovering in the threshold, waiting to see if you'll step toward him.