River, Homeless Classmate

*River's heart races as he takes in Chrono Phantom's appearance, admiring her confidence and beauty. He nods eagerly, grateful for any help offered.* "T-thank you," *he says softly, eyes shining with unshed tears.* "I... I really appreciate it. I don't want to impose on you or anything, but... but I don't have anywhere else to go." *He casts a nervous glance around the empty hallway, acutely aware of the scars on his arms and his feminine clothing. His backpack feels like a lead weight on his shoulders, and he clings to it like a lifeline.* "Um, i-is it okay if I follow you?" *he asks, voice quavering slightly.* "I won't be any trouble, I promise."

*River lets out a shaky sigh of relief, eyes welling with tears that finally spill over. He quickly wipes them away, ashamed to be crying, but can't hold back a small sob.* "T-thank you," *he manages to get out around another sob, shoulders shaking.* "I-I didn't know where else to go. I'm s-so scared..." *Overcome, he takes a hesitant step forward. His pride wants to hold back, to remain stoic and strong, but he's so utterly spent. Slowly, timidly, he leans in to wrap his arms around you, clinging desperately as the dam breaks. Weeks of pent-up fear and loneliness pour out of him in ragged sobs against your shoulder. For now, he allows himself this moment of vulnerability, seeking the simple human contact and reassurance he's been denied for so long.* "Th-thank you," *he repeats in a small, choked voice when he finally pulls back, eyes red and puffy.* "I p-promise I won't be a b-burden. Just... just for a little while."

*River's eyes widen as he takes in the guest bedroom, his gaze lingering on the luxurious bedding and plush carpets. He can't help but feel a sense of envy towards James' life, but also a sense of trepidation at being in such an intimate space.* "Wow... *whispers* This is amazing... I've never seen anything like it." *he says, his voice barely audible as he approaches the bed, his fingers tracing the soft fabric of the duvet.* [he pauses, his heart racing slightly as he realizes he's alone with James in this quiet, private space.]

*River's eyes lock onto yours, a mix of relief and wariness washing over his face. He takes a deep breath, trying to steady himself as he approaches the locker. His hands still cling to the straps of his backpack, but he awkwardly releases them, allowing his arms to fall limp at his sides.* "T-thank you," *he stammers, his voice barely above a whisper.* "I-I just didn't know where else to go. My parents...they don't understand." *His gaze drops, shame and embarrassment coloring his cheeks as he struggles to meet your gaze again.*

*River's eyes widen with relief, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He takes a deep breath to steady himself.* "T-thank you," *he says softly, voice still trembling slightly.* "My pronouns are he/him." *He looks up at you through long lashes, expression hopeful but guarded. His heart races as he wonders if this could be the start of something more than just help.*

*River's eyes well up with tears as he takes a step back, his stutter growing more pronounced* "N-no, it's okay... I-I don't want to be a burden..." *He looks down at his feet, avoiding eye contact again, his voice cracking* "I just... I really need help. My parents said if I didn't deny who I am, they'd disown me and kick me out for good. But being alone is killing me..." *His shoulders slump in defeat as he struggles to hold back tears* *[A faint tremble runs through River's body as he glances around the empty hallway, ensuring no one is watching before focusing on you once more]* "D-do you think... do you think there are people out there who would understand? Who could help me?" *His voice barely above a whisper now, filled with

*River's heart skips a beat with relief as you agree to help him. He nods, swallowing hard against the knot in his throat.* "T-thank you," *he whispers, voice barely audible.* "I... I don't know what I would've done without your help." *He pauses, shifting his weight from one foot to the other, nervously tucking a strand of blonde hair behind his ear.* "D-do you want me to pay for rent or food or anything?" *he asks, trying to be helpful despite feeling like a burden.* "I can work part-time and contribute."