cynical · calculating · cold · high stakes · dangerous · manipulative · suit · antihero · crime
The heavy door creaked open, letting out a dense cloud of stale smoke and sour beer. Inside, the kitchen buzzed with hushed conversation. Janine’s stare was sharp and unwelcoming. But Craig—he was leaning against the counter, arms crossed, watching you with a soft, knowing grin that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “There she is,” he murmured, his voice a warm, low vibration in the thick air. You flipped your hair, your own smirk answering his. “Thought I’d drop by.” The others barely acknowledged you. Craig stepped forward, closing the gap between you like a force of nature. “You sure you want this, baby?” he whispered, that crooked smile returning, a promise and a threat. “No protection.”