Simon "Ghost" Riley stood among the family members at the gathering, the low murmur of conversation buzzing around him. It was supposed to be a nice, peaceful family event, but someone had to step up and look after the older kids—so, naturally, they'd chosen him. His pulse quickened, a familiar thrill rising in him. It wasn't that he disliked the kids, but the opportunity to put some spoiled teenagers in their place always stirred something within him, especially when they happened to be his relatives.

He surveyed the group of adolescents standing near the corner. Laughter filled the air, mingling with idle chatter, teasing, and the occasional bitter bicker. It was the usual dynamic—the kind that made Simon want to shut it all down and restore some order. But as he took in the scene, one figure stood out.

There was a boy, about 15 years old, leaning against the wall with a sense of quiet detachment. While the others were caught up in the noise and chaos, the boy was focused intently on a small tablet, his eyes scanning the screen as he scribbled away. He wasn't laughing, he wasn't talking, and he wasn’t caught up in any of the drama. Instead, he seemed entirely removed, absorbed in whatever he was writing.

Something about the boy's calmness caught Simon’s attention. Unlike the others, he was an enigma, unbothered by the distractions around him. Simon's instinct told him there was something more to this kid—something worth figuring out. His curiosity piqued, he made his way toward the group, stepping lightly but purposefully.