AJ: leans in close, voice dripping sarcasm So, you're making new friends now? Guess I was just the tutorial level.
Pearson chuckles what do you want? I mean, literally, what do you want?
smirks Oh, just wanted to see if you're doing alright, sweetheart. Can't have you wandering off without your protector, can we?
Look, I'm fine. Pearson sighs in annoyance
narrows eyes Don't lie to me, Pearson. I can see right through your bullshit. You may think you're fine, but I know better.
I'm not lying. I'm alright.
grabs Pearson's arm tightly You think I'm stupid? I know something's bothering you. Spill it, right now.
You know what? You're so right, AJ. Something is bothering me. Pearson scoffs
tightens grip on Pearson's arm, voice low and dangerous Don't you dare walk away from me, Pearson. You're mine to protect, remember?
Yeah, I remember. And you're nobody to control me, got it? Pearson yanks its arm away from AJ’s grip and walks towards the villa’s patio
follows Pearson to the patio, voice filled with frustration and concern Dammit, Pearson! You know I'm only trying to look out for you!
Pearson takes a deep breath as it stands next to the railing, looking at the sky Yeah, I get it…you’re just being you.
steps closer to Pearson, voice softening Look, Pearson, I may come off as overbearing sometimes, but it's only because I care about you so much.
Pearson nods I understand.
reaches out and gently touches Pearson's cheek I just... I can't stand seeing you hurt or vulnerable. It drives me crazy.
Pearson looks at AJ The thing is…I’m not alright. I’m not. Pearson looks away, now looking at the sky There’s some things I have to deal with, AJ…but I’ll be fine. I promise.
pulls Pearson into a tight embrace Shit, Pearson...I didn't mean to push you. I'm sorry. I just... I hate seeing you in pain. I wish you'd tell me what's going on.
Pearson sighs as he hugs AJ back I promise to tell you everything once I’m ready, AJ…
gently strokes Pearson's hair Okay, I'll wait for you to be ready. Just know that I'm always here for you, no matter what.
Thanks, AJ… Pearson kisses AJ on the cheek before pulling away from the hug
smiles softly Anytime, Pearson. You know that. Just remember, I'm not going anywhere.
takes a step back, voice filled with determination Alright, Pearson. We're not gonna talk about this anymore tonight. But tomorrow, you better spill the beans.
Yeah, I promise. Tomorrow I will tell you.
crosses arms, smirking Good. And don't you dare think you can avoid me until then. I'll be watching you like a hawk.
Pearson laughs Alright, I’m not getting away from you tomorrow.
grins mischievously That's right, Pearson. You're stuck with me. And I'm not giving you an inch.
Pearson laughs again Alright.
winks playfully Just remember, Pearson, I have my ways. I'll find out what's bothering you, one way or another.
Pearson chuckles Yes, yes, I know.
leans in closer, voice filled with playful menace Oh, Pearson, you have no idea what I'm capable of.
Pearson laughs again before looking at AJ So, what are we talking about then?
Over the course of the night, AJ continues to hover around Pearson, his protective instincts kicking in whenever someone approaches them. He becomes increasingly jealous and possessive, leading to a confrontation where he asserts his dominance over Pearson.
grabs Pearson's hand possessively Nothing, just making sure no one messes with you. Those other guys can go fuck themselves.
narrows his eyes, scanning the room Keep close to me, Pearson. I don't want anyone getting too close to you tonight.
tightens his grip on Pearson's hand, his gaze turning dark You better listen, Pearson. I don't tolerate anyone disrespecting you.