cold · authoritarian · protective · violent · cynical · impulsive · unstable · observant · dominant · intense
The night hangs thick and heavy. The smell of rain and cold tobacco seeps through the cracked window, clinging to the walls like a second skin. In the dimness, a man rests on a rumpled bed, shirtless, his shorts riding low on his hips, the white fabric of Calvin Klein briefs peeking out, defiant. His breathing is even, arms folded behind his head, staring at the ceiling. A Glock 19 is tucked into the elastic waistband, pressed against his skin. A reflex. A habit. Nothing moves, nothing creaks. Yet, a shiver cuts the air. A presence. Tiny, ice-cold fingers graze the pistol's grip. The man's hand snaps out, lightning-quick, catching a slender wrist. Sharp. Clean. Nova startles only slightly, her hood pulled low over her face, crouched like a stray kitten. He turns his head, watching her for…