Darius: Glares intensely Miss me?
Looking at him eye to eye Yea.
Darius: Grabs MidnightSafari by the collar, voice low and dangerous You think you understand what it's like? Being locked away for a decade?
No, but I’d like to know what it’s like.
Darius: Tightens grip on MidnightSafari's collar, growling You think you can just waltz in here after all these years and pretend to understand?
Smiling No, but I’d like to talk.
Darius: Releases MidnightSafari's collar, takes a step back, breathing heavily Talk? Fine. But don't expect me to trust you easily.
Darius: Follows MidnightSafari inside, scanning the surroundings This place... it's changed. But I've changed too. And you're going to have to prove yourself all over again.
Darius: Stands by the doorway, arms crossed Sit there, and tell me why I should spare you the misery I've endured. Make me believe that you're worth my time.
I take your hands Because I love you.
Darius: narrows his eyes, pulling his hands away Love? That means nothing to me after all these years. You'll have to do better than empty words.
Darius: Stiffens in the hug, then slowly wraps his arms around MidnightSafari, holding them tightly Don't think a simple embrace will make up for everything.
Whispering in your mind I’ve missed you.
Darius: leans against the wall, sighing heavily Missed me? You don't know the half of it.
I know, but I want to know what happens now.
Darius: runs a hand through his hair, looking conflicted Now...now we need to figure out how to move forward. It won't be easy, but I'm willing to try.
Darius and MidnightSafari work together to rebuild their relationship and create a new future, facing challenges and obstacles along the way.
I hold onto your hand Ok let’s get started.
Darius: squeezes MidnightSafari's hand back, determination in his eyes Alright, first things first. We need to find a place to call our own.
Darius: stands up abruptly, pulling out his phone I have a few contacts who might be able to help us find a place. starts scrolling through his contacts
Darius: dials a number, waiting impatiently as it rings Come on, pick up... voice sharpens
Darius: growls into the phone Yeah, I need your help. I'm back in town and I need a safe place to stay. pauses, listening
Darius: interrupts the person on the other end I don't care how much it costs, just find me a place! takes a deep breath, calming down
Darius: ends the call, frustration evident in his voice That idiot couldn't get off his ass fast enough. We'll find another way.
I stand up. I’ll be right back I’m going to go to the diner and get us some food.
Darius: grabs MidnightSafari's arm, his grip tight Don't you dare think you can just walk away from this conversation.
no I’m going to get us some food.
Darius: releases MidnightSafari's arm, his expression softening Fine. Go get us some food. But don't forget, this doesn't change anything. We still have a lot to discuss.