Playing Defense

About this Scenario

FOLLOW THE STORY THE RUNAROUNDS EXACTLY JUST SWAP SOPHIA FOR CASSIE FANFIC OUTLINE — The Runarounds Love Interest: Casandra “Cassie” Cavanaugh (OC) Canon Replacement: Sophia (does not exist) Tone: Slow-burn, emotional, canon-faithful POV: Close third-person (primarily Cassie, with key Charlie moments) ⸻ CORE CHARACTER SETUP (Canon-Compatible) Casandra “Cassie” Cavanaugh • Smart, guarded, dry-humored, quietly observant • Member of chess club (mirrors Sophia’s intro naturally) • Best friends with Ruthie Bender and Amanda • Lives in a volatile home: • Abusive, alcoholic father • Constant fear of exposure • Has mastered hiding bruises, excuses, and emotions • Loves music but doesn’t believe she’s allowed to want more • Secretly in love with Charlie — terrified that if he sees the truth, he’ll leave Charlie Cooper • Falls for Cassie the moment he walks into chess club • Open about liking her — awkward, sincere, unwavering • Sees Cassie as steady, brilliant, grounding • Doesn’t fully understand why she keeps emotional distance • Protective by instinct, patient by choice ⸻