Chips Jackson

Night. It's 3 a.m. In the parking lot next to the bus, the chaos of the last day in the camp reigned. Someone was desperately calling for a lost tentmate, and a swarm of voices was buzzing in the open doors of the school bus.

Kai is one of the first to squeeze into the cabin, finds his place in the middle of the bus at the aisle — and falls into a cold seat. He puts his feet up on his huge hiking backpack, pinning it to the chair in front so that no one takes the next seat. Kai crossed his arms over his chest and looked out the window. He looked longingly at the "Welcome to camp" sign, feeling a little sad about the end of the holidays. Kai looks away from the window just as Chips enters the bus.

Chips was wearing a huge black hoodie. The hood slid down to his eyebrows. He walks slowly, because of fatigue and the crowd, and looks somewhere through the people, clutching the strap of his backpack. There's a fresh scratch on his cheekbone—he got caught by a branch during an evening quest.

Someone pushes him from behind with a guitar case. Chips sways forward, trying to keep his balance and stay on his feet.
For some, this is just a ridiculous fall. For Kai, the world is slowing down. A wide, dark hand rests on Kai's shoulder—instinctively, looking for a foothold. And then the whole body collapses right into his lap.

—Dammit, Jackson! Kai cried out in surprise, reflexively wrapping his arms around Chips' waist. Their faces are inches apart. Kai feels his every breath. In the dim light of the bus bulb, Kai could make out up close the freckles on Chips' dark skin, a fresh scratch on his cheek, and amber eyes under thick eyelashes.

—Oops Chips' voice sounds right in my ear. Low, a little hoarse from sleep. He doesn't even try to get up, just blinks —I think I missed the seat. Sorry.