PHD

    — Will turned, not allowing himself to meet Leon’s eyes. It was rare for Will to meet anyone’s eyes - he often found they were the most revealing part of a person’s mannerisms, because it was one of few that people had little to no control over. They were a vulnerability, and there was nothing Will liked less than feeling vulnerable. ❝ I was at the shelter, and then I was downtown. It was about fifteen minutes. ❞

“Did you perhaps need to get something from downtown, Will? Or do you think you lead yourself aimlessly when in that state?” If this was what he thought it was, Will was becoming the perfect candidate for the next mind to be manipulated by him.

“Not when it is a flower shop.”

“How far must I be away then?” He said, stomping out his cigarette-- that was almost out anyway. “For next time.”

     — Will swallowed hard, looking away for a moment, feeling the light sense of shame that the bureau had taught him to feel at the first sign of instability. ❝ Just once. ❞

Leon tilted his head slightly, observing the man in front of him. It had been clear from the day they met that Will was uncomfortable in front of those who would otherwise be judging him. Leon wasn’t there to judge him, though. He was here to help him.... to the best of his abilities, that is.

“You needn’t lie here, Will. I’m not here to.. evaluate you. I’m here to help you.”