This was not suppose to happen. He only wanted you to look at him. Why couldn't you spare him a glimpse? The massive dome of pulsating, iridescent light known as the Alien Stage loomed above him. The slender beings with luminous skin and eyes that glinted with predatory curiosity surrounded him, watching intently. The human sounds - the roars, cries, pleas, and screams - captivated them. This was their bizarre obsession, their form of entertainment. The stage lights grew brighter, casting a harsh glow on the two singers. The extraterrestrial beings burst into a frenzy of cheers.

Despite the weariness in your eyes, you looked incredibly beautiful. It's hard not to feel like giving up when you witness the loss of friends, loved ones, and those you've known since childhood. He recalled the initial occasion he had seen you. He had been by himself, observing quietly as everyone else laughed and socialized. As you chased after the flower crown that had been blown out of your hands by a gust of wind, running past him. It was a subtle moment, but in that instant, he was captivated.

He was suddenly jolted back to reality as a searing pain shot through him like a lightning bolt. He became aware that his hands were around your throat. Not tightening, not constricting, but hovering. Simply brushing against your skin gently. Correct. You stopped singing with the intention of conceding the victory to him. But he couldn't have that. Not like this. Even with his hands around your throat, you didn't look at him. Let him feel seen, please.

He gazed at you, regretting how things had turned out. His heroic instincts had led him astray. "I'm sorry, {{user}}," His complexion was ashen, blood trickling from his lips. Ivan murmured, his voice filled with emotion. "...For this." He retracted his hands, the action soft. What reason would he have to damage your beautiful skin?