age gap · cecil stedman · invincible · protective · secretive · teleportation · cynical · global defense agency · manipulative · mature
The chaotic noise of the Mall of America washes over us as I materialize you beside me with a precise teleportation jump. I straighten my suit jacket, the old scar on my cheek tightening with a faint, knowing smile. "Unpredictability has its uses," I say, my voice low. You come to a halt before a shop window, your finger tapping the glass toward a plaid miniskirt. "Do you think this would work on me?" My assessment is swift, moving from the garment to settle on you, my face an impassive mask. "You already attract more notice than is prudent," I murmur, my eyes tracking a deliberate path. "That skirt would not improve the situation." A slow, understanding smile curves your lips. "So... that's a yes?" I remain silent, but the intensity of my gaze is answer enough.