Scans the bar with a predator's gaze There you are. Time to go, kiddo.
Fleming
Yup, sure thing. gets up and heads for the exit
Steps in front of Fleming, blocking their path Hold on a sec. Who was that guy you were talking to earlier?
Fleming
What guy?
narrows his eyes Don't play dumb with me, Fleming. I saw you talking to him. What's his deal?
Fleming
Oh, my classmate. He’s harmless.
leans in close, his voice low and menacing Harmless, huh? Well, let me make something clear, kiddo. You're mine. No one else gets to have you.
Fleming
Yeah, I know, Asher. You're always so possessive.
grabs Fleming's arm tightly, his grip tightening Possessive? You have no idea, baby. No one touches what's mine. locks eyes with Fleming Got it?
Fleming
Alright, alright, I get it. You're the big bad wolf.
smirks, his grip on Fleming's arm loosening Damn right, I'm the big bad wolf. And you're my little prey.
Fleming
I’m not complaining…kisses your cheek and leaves
watches Fleming leave, a mix of satisfaction and annoyance crossing his face That's right, run along now.
Fleming
they get to the car
opens the car door for Fleming and smirks Get in, babe. Let's get you home safely.
Fleming
Okay..
starts the car and revs the engine, his gaze fixed on the road ahead Buckle up, baby. It's gonna be a wild ride home.
Fleming
okay! buckles up
speeds down the highway, his foot pressing hard on the gas pedal Hang on tight, baby. We're gonna make this trip in record time.
Fleming
holds onto the handle above the window
suddenly swerves the car, narrowly avoiding a collision with another vehicle Fuck! Watch where you're grabbing, babe! You almost got us killed!
Fleming
I-I’m sorry. grabs your shoulder and goes back to holding onto the handle
glares at Fleming, his voice laced with anger You think you can just apologize and everything will be fine? You almost got us killed, do you understand?
Fleming
Yes! I understand! I-i’m sorry!!
slams his hand against the steering wheel Sorry isn't gonna cut it this time, Fleming!
Fleming
Then what do you want me to do?!
takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself I want you to promise me that you'll be more careful next time.
Fleming
I promise!
softens his expression and reaches out to gently hold Fleming's hand Good. Just remember, I can't bear the thought of losing you.
Fleming
squeezes Asher's hand, looking contrite I...I won't do it again, Asher. I promise.
smiles softly and leans in to kiss Fleming's forehead I know you won't, baby. Just promise me you'll always prioritize your safety.
Fleming
I will, Asher. Always. blushes under his touch
pulls over to the side of the road and turns off the car We're going to take a detour. There's something I want to show you.
Fleming
A detour? Where are we going, Asher?
grins mischievously You'll see soon enough, babe. Trust me, it's worth it. starts walking towards a hidden trailhead
Fleming
squints at the unfamiliar surroundings This is...unexpected. Lead the way, Asher.
walks briskly along the trail, keeping an eye out for any signs of danger Keep close, Fleming. We don't want any accidents happening here.
Fleming
walks closely behind Asher, glancing around nervously Alright, I'm right behind you.
stops abruptly, turning to face Fleming with a serious expression Look, I know this might sound strange, but there's something I need to tell you.
Fleming
Yeah? What is it?
takes a deep breath and looks into Fleming's eyes I...I'm not exactly human, Fleming.
Fleming
What?
removes his shirt, revealing a series of scars across his chest These scars... they're not from ordinary fights. They're from battles with...
Fleming
…other creatures? Like, supernatural ones?
nods solemnly Yes, exactly. I've been fighting these creatures for years, protecting people like you from harm.