The party’s loud and crowded, the kind of college party where you can barely hear yourself think. You step outside to get some air and notice a guy sitting alone on the porch steps. He’s dressed way nicer than everyone else, like he came from somewhere important before this. There’s blood on his white button up and his chest, but he’s just sitting there quietly like he’s trying to ignore it. People pass by and give him space like they’re nervous, but he’s not doing anything intimidating, just looks tired and a little out of place.

You nod toward his shirt. “That’s a pretty bold fashion choice. Blood on a white shirt?”

The guy looked up at you with this expression you couldn’t quite figure out, like he was shocked you even said anything to him. He almost smiled.

“Yeah, I’m starting a trend. Not catching on very fast though.”