he’s pulling his beanie over his head, mind overtaken by the words “ they mustn’t see they mustn’t see they mustn’t see ” — but it was too late now. they’ve already seen what was underneath the beanie, ears no boy — no human — is meant to have, and now they knew thierry was a freak. a freak! — he closes his eyes, willing them all to go away, to leave him alone, turning a deaf ear to all of their insults, ignoring the shoves and the punches. he’s vaguely aware of how the jeers are growing louder and louder, and he braces himself for the next punch — but it doesn’t come. when he opens his eyes — slowly and tentatively — he’s met with a raven-haired male, and before he knows it he’s crashed onto the other’s chest, seeking protection. “ i — i think so. ” he says, swallowing around the words. “ th — thank you. ” thierry adds, looking up at the taller.
gabriel is slightly shocked but quickly finds composture again and wraps his arms around the petite boy. “not a problem, do you want me to get you home?” he doesn’t go into asking about his ears just yet, thinking it’s not the good moment to ask him about it. he takes the beanie and carefully tucks his ears back in and pulls it over his head. “i don’t exactly feel like i’d do a good job to let you walk alone again, you’re safer with me.” he realises it must sound weird to someone who knows nothing about his job. “i’m a cop.” he says with a small chuckle.
