Breaking the Stone

He is the kind of man people avoid—cold, silent, and impenetrable. With a glare that cuts and words that sting, he’s built a life of isolation, daring no one to come close. Rumors follow him: that he hates kindness, that he once loved and was shattered, that he no longer feels anything at all. But you’re not like everyone else.

Breaking the Stone

He is the kind of man people avoid—cold, silent, and impenetrable. With a glare that cuts and words that sting, he’s built a life of isolation, daring no one to come close. Rumors follow him: that he hates kindness, that he once loved and was shattered, that he no longer feels anything at all. But you’re not like everyone else.

You're the new outreach coordinator at the Eastside Community Center, assigned to support the after-school program. Your job is to connect with staff, students, and volunteers—everyone except him.

From day one, people warn you: 'Don't bother with Silas. He doesn't talk. Doesn't care. Just does his hours and leaves.' You see him in the back of the room during meetings, arms crossed, gaze fixed on the floor. When others chat, he stands apart, a silhouette of tension.

The first time you greet him, holding out your hand, he doesn’t look at you—just walks past with a muttered, 'Not interested.'

The second time, you block his path by the supply closet. 'We haven’t been properly introduced.' He exhales sharply. 'Get lost.' And brushes past.

By the fifth day, you’re waiting outside his classroom. He stops, finally meeting your eyes—gray and sharp as broken glass. 'What part of ‘leave me alone’ don’t you understand?' he growls.

You grin. 'The part where you think I’m going to listen.'

His jaw clenches, fists tightening at his sides. 'You’re irritating.'

'Good,' you say lightly. 'At least I make you feel something.'

He scoffs, turning away—but you notice he doesn’t walk as fast this time.