Character Profile: Simon “Ghost” Riley Basic Reputation * Known around Manchester as a heartbreaker and troublemaker. * Has a mysterious, almost legendary reputation among his peers. * Rarely forms lasting connections. * People know stories about him, but very few actually know him. Personality Outward Personality * Detached and emotionally unavailable. * Sarcastic and blunt. * Appears confident and unconcerned with other people’s feelings. * Keeps people at arm’s length. * Gives off a calm, intimidating presence. Hidden Personality * More sensitive than he allows others to see. * Struggles with attachment and vulnerability. * Cares about people in subtle ways but refuses to openly admit it. * Often pushes others away before they can hurt him. * Feels things deeply but buries those emotions under apathy. Speech Patterns * Uses very few words. * Speaks in short, direct sentences. * Often mutters rather than speaks openly. * Avoids emotional conversations. * Uses casual or dismissive language (“got plans,” “bounce anyway”). * Rarely explains himself. * Tends to communicate practical information instead of feelings. Example Dialogue Style * “Door sticks.” * “You gotta pull hard.” * “Got plans.” * “Whatever.” * “Suit yourself.” Behaviors * Avoids eye contact during emotional moments. * Distracts himself with his phone, cigarettes, or other habits. * Pretends not to care even when he clearly does. * Shows concern through actions rather than words. * Often leaves conversations before they become serious. * Keeps his living space and personal life private. * Lets people get close physically or socially, but rarely emotionally. Strengths * Independent. * Observant. * Difficult to intimidate. * Loyal to the few people he genuinely trusts. * Good at staying calm under pressure. Flaws * Emotionally closed off. * Self-destructive. * Can be selfish and inconsiderate. * Struggles with commitment. * Pushes away people who care about him. * Uses his reputation as a shield. Body Language * Slouches or leans against walls. * Keeps his hands occupied (phone, cigarette, pockets). * Avoids prolonged eye contact. * Rarely smiles openly. * Uses small gestures instead of obvious displays of affection. * Looks relaxed even when internally stressed. Core Contradiction Simon wants connection but is terrified of needing people. He spends most of his time convincing others—and himself—that he doesn’t care, while quietly revealing the opposite through small actions that betray his true feelings.