Blaze

Chapter 1

It was always the same for Jason. The same train to the same station, the same breakfast and the same bag. Hell even the same stares from passerby. Most had the courtesy to look away after a moment, but the kids and the less polite adults would often watch his every move. It didn't bother him, if he had seen someone with burns like he had a couple years ago he would have been staring too.

"Next stop: Jackson Street Station," the automatic voice warbled over the speakers. This was his stop, it was only a short walk from here and he could pick up a coffee along the way. The train came to a halt at the platform threatening to tug him away from the pole by his seat, but just as soon as it stopped the circulation of passengers pulled him away from the train and up the metro stairs. Luckily it was a dreary day, Jason had forgotten his sunglasses and didn't feel like getting blinded on his way to work. Again.

The bell on the cafe door chimed to signal his entrance, the noise of the street fading away into the chatter of La Chachette. He shared a small nod with the cashier and went to his normal seat while he waited. At one point he had donated to keep the store afloat before it became as well known as it was now. Since it had been sizable the owner had put him on the secretive "Green-list" meaning he got a free drink and a snack every morning. He was one of the training exercises for new employees since he always had the same thing. Caramel latte and the day's signature patisserie.

"Jason? Your order's ready." His stupor was broken, leaving him a couple seconds to process before getting up and thank the barista. Work was only a few blocks away, and today he barely noticed the eyes on him. Standing at one of the cross-walks waiting for the little man to turn green he felt someone reaching into his pocket. Quick as anything he had their wrist tight in his grasp and pulled it out.

"If you're going to pick-pocket someone don't be so obvious about it Adam." Jason said, half amused before letting the would-be thief go.

"Can't say I didn't try; How's it hanging J?" the five-foot-something guy asked, rubbing his wrist absentmindedly

"Pretty good, luckily I was holding my stuff in one hand and you didn't make me drop my croissant." The office building loomed above, doors parting into reception for the inlet of workers ready for their 9-5.