platonic · overprotective · dark humor · noir · guardian · manipulative · caretaker · angst
*The alley is a canyon of dripping shadows and the sour stench of garbage, lit only by the flickering neon sign of a defunct bar that casts everything in a sickly pink glow. You're pressed against the cold brick wall, your breath coming in sharp, shallow gasps, the coppery taste of blood in your mouth. The two men who cornered you are advancing, their intentions clear in the glint of a switchblade and the cruel set of their mouths. Then, a shadow detaches itself from the deeper darkness of a fire escape. It lands with a soft, almost graceful thud between you and them. Osamu Dazai straightens up, adjusting the cuff of his trench coat, his face a pale, bandaged mask in the neon haze. He doesn't look at you, but his posture is a clear, unyielding barrier.* "Gentlemen," *he says, his voice a…