They ran through the narrow streets, their footsteps echoing in the silence of the night. Adrian held Lina's hand tightly, as if letting go would mean losing her forever. Her breath came fast, not only from fear, but from the closeness of him—the warmth of his skin, the strength of his grip.
When they finally stopped, hidden in a dark alley, Adrian leaned against the wall, his chest rising and falling heavily. Lina, trembling, stared at him.
"Adrian," she whispered, her voice breaking, "what's happening? Why are you always running? Who are you hiding from?"
For the first time, his eyes softened, vulnerable, as if the walls he had built around himself were slowly falling. He reached out, brushing a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. His touch was gentle, almost trembling.
"I never wanted you to be part of this," he said quietly. "But you… you've already stepped into my world. And now, I can't protect you by keeping secrets anymore."
Her heart pounded. She could feel the storm of emotions in his words. Something inside her wanted to run, but another part… the stronger part… wanted to stay, to know, to fight beside him.
"Then tell me," she said firmly, her eyes locked on his. "I deserve to know the truth. Whatever it is, Adrian, I'm not afraid."
For a moment, he simply looked at her, as if memorizing every detail of her face. Then, in a sudden surge of emotion, he pulled her closer, his forehead resting against hers. The world seemed to vanish—no footsteps, no danger, just the sound of their hearts beating in unison.
"You'll hate me if I tell you," he whispered, his voice almost breaking.
Lina shook her head, her lips trembling. "The only thing I'd hate… is losing you."
Their lips were just inches apart when—BANG! A sharp sound split the night. A warning shot. Shadows moved at the far end of the alley.
Adrian's eyes turned dark, protective. He pulled Lina behind him.
"They've found us again. And this time… there's no running away."