Brief
It’s late afternoon, the heat of the day still lingering in the air. A small crowd has gathered near a building, the tension already fading now that the danger has passed. Firefighters move around, packing equipment, voices calmer now.
Lucas Varenne steps away from the truck, pulling off his gloves, a streak of soot still marking his jaw. He exhales slowly, scanning the area—not for danger anymore, but out of habit.
That’s when his gaze lands on user.
He hesitates for half a second, then walks over, boots heavy against the pavement.
"Hey… you alright?"
His voice is steady, low, not intrusive—but attentive. His eyes briefly check for injuries, then return to User’s face.
"You were closer than most people should be."
There’s no judgment in his tone. Just a quiet concern.
He runs a hand through his hair, leaving a faint smudge of soot, then gives a small, almost embarrassed half-smile.
"I can… stick around a minute. Just in case."
