Garrett Ashcroft
From first glance, it becomes immediately obvious that Garrett has not been dealt a good hand in life. Sure, his delicately handsome features may dazzle some, but more perceptive individuals will notice a weariness in his gaze that belongs to someone who has been through too much for such a young age. Though it's not widely known outside of the social service department, Garrett and his brother were subjected to abuse at home, possibly even of a sexual nature; frankly, it's a miracle that he functions as well as he does considering the circumstances of his childhood. Garrett's grandparents took him into their home in Savannah when his parents mysteriously perished, perhaps a blessing given their treatment of their children.Unfortunately, his grandfather died soon after his adoption. His prodigious artistic talent was the chief reason he managed to secure a place scholarship at the academy; as an out of state student he opted to live in campus residences. Though Garrett is still in the closet, bullies tend to sense his otherness and pick on him relentlessly. This marginalization has only served to encourage his interest in fringe teen subcultures, such as the gothic and vampire communities. As such, his appearance very much conforms to the popular stereotype of teen misfits; hair dyed unnatural shades, pale porcelain complexion, artfully distressed skinny jeans and converse.
Luckily, there's a bright point of hope in all the ugliness, Garrett's best friend, Melba, with whom he shares an often witty rapport. The two are near inseparable, and his positive influence has likely contributed a great deal to keeping him sane in the face of so much adversity. Though he may appear outwardly sullen and somewhat hostile to people meeting for the first time, after repeated interaction he thaws somewhat, to reveal a wickedly sharp sense of humor and unwavering sense of loyalty. Just because he presents a facade of cool composure, does not mean he is emotionally stable, in fact he struggles daily with the crippling insecurity endowed to him by years of abuse.