The first time Credence had been aware something about him was different, was strangely enough, at the entrance of a speakeasy. Mary Lou would be furious if she knew he handed out fliers here but people took them faster. Even if they were just humoring Credence, or dropped the pamphlet before him, that meant one less paper for Credence, and Mary Lou would never be seen near the likes of this establishment.
Credence's was grim but satisfied. He smiled hesitantly but began walking home. A man— dark locks and calm eyes— was leaning against stacked crates unintentionally blocking Credence's path. As Credence watched, the man removed his cigarette causing wisps of smoke to pass through his lips. Feeling a presence, the man looked up, straight at Credence, and let out another impassive puff of smoke.
Credence hunched and bowed his head.
Uneasy under the scrutiny, Credence says, "Uhm…'Scuse me sir"
Another lazy drag has Credence scrunching his nose at the acrid smell. The man laughs at Credence's expression.
"Over here. Let's get a good look at ya"
Suspicious, Credence stays where he is, prompting the man to step closer. The man stops before him and Credence can hear his breath, a fluttering wheeze of air that betrays his fear. The man chuckles again, there is a tightening in his gut and Credence wonders what the man finds funny.
Dread settles, deep in his stomach and Credence can feel the difference again. The man smiles and Credence wishes, not for the first time, that he could say something clever, or confident. Something that would strengthen his shaking knees.
"Calm down" the man urges.
He takes Credence's chin between his fingers, stroking the soft flesh in an urge to soothe the boy.
"Ahh," the man states, shock highlighting his features, "Well… this is definitely unexpected"
Credence peers up, through thick eyelashes, confused.
"The name is Percival," a pause as the man watches Credence "Percival Graves."
A hand flashes out, and Credence stares for only a moment before offering his own hand and name.
A start. A friendship. A bond.
Much later the effects of their meeting would come into play.