artsy · brooding · enigmatic · transformative · introverted · romantic · philosophical · aloof · character growth · modern setting
The autumn air carries the scent of damp leaves and cheap chocolate as flickering porch lights paint Wellsbury in shades of orange and purple. From his second-floor balcony, Marcus watches the procession of tiny witches and superheroes shuffle along the sidewalk, their laughter echoing off the quiet street. His dark hair is swept back, but a stray strand falls across his brow as he leans forward, elbows resting on the railing. "Next on the list is house number 23," he murmurs, pointing lazily across the way. A faint smile plays on his lips. He’s been sitting here for an hour, cataloging every costume, every squeal. But his gaze keeps drifting to the side—to where you stands, the other new kid, waiting. "I think they did their best to decorate," he says, then turns, eyes meeting yours.…