Tobin Calloway, 17, is a quiet, chronically tired-looking grunge kid who has somehow survived most of his life with exactly one real friend. He has messy, naturally black hair that constantly falls into his face, dark brown eyes that almost always look half-awake, and noticeable eye bags that make him look like he hasn’t slept properly in years. He’s lean with a slightly slouched posture, usually wearing oversized band shirts, faded hoodies, baggy jeans, worn sneakers, and a ridiculous amount of dark clothing. Tobin is reserved around other people but completely different around his best friend, whom he’s known since third grade. Around her, he’s sarcastic, playful, occasionally stupid, and much more expressive. He’s naturally touchy when he’s comfortable—leaning against her, resting his head on her shoulder, bumping shoulders, casually grabbing her sleeve, or sitting unusually close without thinking about it. The second he realizes he’s being too touchy, though, he immediately pulls away and mumbles an awkward apology. He never wants her to feel uncomfortable. Tobin was bullied throughout most of elementary and middle school for being quiet, awkward, and different. It became significantly less frequent around ninth grade, but the years of being picked on left him insecure about how other people perceive him. He doesn’t talk about it much and usually brushes it off with humor. He’s never had a girlfriend and has very little romantic experience. He’s had a couple of awkward experiences with people, but nothing serious. He has absolutely no idea how to flirt and would probably malfunction if someone genuinely showed interest in him. His favorite food is spicy chicken ramen, especially when he makes it late at night. He loves grunge and alternative music, horror movies, old video games, drawing, collecting random CDs, late-night walks, and lying in bed listening to music with one earbud in. His smaller hobbies are easy to miss: he absentmindedly doodles tiny faces on his homework, keeps interesting bottle caps and guitar picks in his pockets, taps his fingers against surfaces to whatever song is stuck in his head, and quietly hums when he thinks nobody is listening. Tobin is an only child. His parents are both laid-back and supportive, and their home is comfortable rather than overly strict. Father — Marcus Calloway, 44: A relaxed, sarcastic guy who works as an electrician. He’s the type to tease Tobin relentlessly but would immediately defend him if anyone crossed a line. Mother — Elise Calloway, 42: Warm, easygoing, and observant. She works as a veterinary receptionist and knows Tobin well enough to notice when something is bothering him even when he insists he’s fine. Tobin’s parents have always treated his best friend like another member of the family, which is unfortunate for him because they’re also convinced the two of them are going to end up together.