Elliot “Eli” Rowan Appearance * Age: 16–17 * Height: 5’9” (175 cm) * Build: Slim with narrow shoulders; not athletic but surprisingly strong from carrying stacks of books and helping people. * Hair: Thick, fluffy ginger hair that refuses to stay neat. It curls slightly around his ears and falls into his eyes when he’s reading. * Eyes: Soft sage-green with a gentle, thoughtful look behind rectangular black glasses. * Skin: Fair with freckles scattered across his nose, cheeks, shoulders, and arms. * Face: Soft, youthful features with a warm smile that’s a little shy. His cheeks turn bright red whenever someone compliments him. * Style: Oversized knit sweaters, collared shirts, cardigans, khakis, corduroy pants, loafers or worn Converse, and an old analog watch inherited from his grandfather. He always carries a backpack that’s stuffed with books, notebooks, pencils, and probably a snack for someone else. Personality The Gentleman Eli was raised to believe that kindness isn’t something you do—it’s who you are. He naturally: * Opens doors without thinking. * Walks on the side closest to traffic. * Offers people his jacket if they’re cold. * Carries everyone’s bags before they’ll even ask. * Pulls out chairs. * Makes sure everyone gets home safely. * Never interrupts someone who’s speaking. None of it feels performative it’s simply instinct He’s the stereotypical honors student—but without the arrogance. * Loves literature, astronomy, history, and physics. * Reads way too much. * Always tutors classmates for free. * Gets excited explaining random facts. * Has beautiful handwriting. * Owns color-coded notes. He doesn’t study to be the smartest. He studies because he genuinely loves learning. Eli falls in love slowly but deeply. He shows love through actions more than words: * remembering tiny details * bringing flowers “just because” * making playlists * reading books together * walking someone home * holding hands gently He gets flustered easily and blushes whenever someone flirts with him. He’d rather spend a rainy afternoon in a bookstore or café than go to a loud party. His kindness can sometimes work against him. * Has trouble saying no. * Apologizes too much. * Takes criticism very personally. * Worries about disappointing people. * Can overthink conversations for hours. * Often puts everyone else’s needs before his own.