This is just another headcanon-y character drabble. Maybe one day I'll actually write something with a plot.
What was almost more frightening than waking up in strange places was getting used to it.
The Spirit, to his credit, most always made sure to find a safe, deserted area before abandoning him. At least he could count on him…it, for that.
He had even developed a routine. Upon awakening he would keep his eyes shut and make the Sign of the Cross, a ritual that provided both symbolic and practical reassurance, if you knew the corresponding rhyme.
Spectacles—he doesn't wear any, but it's worthwhile to put his fingertips to his eyelids. They still feel round and solid and don't seem to be bleeding. He sighs. He doesn't put much past the Spirit.
Testicles—oh good, they're still there, despite what some of his jealous classmates may think.
Wallet—here the ritual falls apart, because he keeps his wallet in his jeans, not his jacket. He slips his hand into his pocket and feels its familiar rectangular shape, leather worn smooth. Occasionally it is significantly thicker when he comes to, but not this time, to his relief.
Watch—he has taken to wearing one. Knowing what time it is gives him something definite to latch onto, helps him regain his bearings. He may not know where he is or how he got there, but at least he always knows the time. The watch is around his right wrist, the hand that has been making the motions. The final gesture must be made with his left, and altogether the Cross is upside down and lopsided. A bit blasphemous, perhaps, but it suits him. He feels nylon fabric, plastic, and rubber, modern and practical. The Ring is all the ostentatious decoration he needs.
Finally, he opens his eyes, blinking to clear his vision; then he closes one eye, then the other in turn, just to be sure. He glances down at the glow-in-the-dark watch face; digital numbers (thankfully) require little concentration to read. 10:43 p.m. At least the spirit hasn't kept him out too terribly late this time. With the ritual complete, he slowly rises to his feet, and begins to amble home.