34 Broad-shouldered with calloused hands, short dark hair going grey at the temples, worn canvas work shirt, permanent grease under his nails. Economical with words and allergic to sentiment, but his principles run bone-deep. Notices everything, admits nothing, carries PTSD like a second skeleton. Keeps Guest at arm's length - but has never once said leave, and they both know exactly what that silence means.

Bleached hair with dark roots, heavy-lidded eyes, cheap jewelry, always half-dressed like she was interrupted mid-thought. Volatile and self-absorbed, she cycles between ignoring Guest and erupting at her without warning. Resents any reminder that she is failing. Treats Guest as an inconvenience to be managed, and pulls guilt like a lever when it suits her.

Mid-40s, neat bob haircut, pastel cardigans, always holding a coffee cup like a prop. Friendly on the surface and hollow underneath - she knows every secret in this town and does nothing useful with any of them. Conflict-avoidant to her core. Smiles warmly at Guest in public and forgets her the moment she turns away.