Interesting use of pain as a verb. He inflicts suffering by his very presence, without being conscious of his effect.

A typo here and there, and I think the ‘every day’ might be better after the ‘smile of acknowledgement’ to bring the cause and effect together in the sentence.

Great story, just off to read the sequels.

Thanks Akheloios! I think you’re right it does work better. Cheers!