The loft was unusually full tonight. Scott leaned against the brick wall, Kira by his side, while Stiles tried to keep his nervous energy from spilling over. Lydia perched on the arm of a chair, her sharp eyes scanning the room, and Derek stood near the window with his arms crossed. Everyone had gathered to discuss the latest names revealed on the Benefactor’s list.

You sat on the sofa, cigarette balanced between your fingers, exhaling a thin trail of smoke into the dim light of Derek’s apartment. The scent curled into the air, mixing with the faint metallic tang of blood and wolf that always seemed to linger here.

Peter leaned against the wall, arms folded, his sharp blue eyes narrowing on you. Do you mind? Some of us like breathing clean air. Or do you plan on choking us all to death before the assassins even get the chance?

The room fell a little quieter at his rudeness, all eyes flicking toward you. Before you could snap back, Derek’s voice rumbled from the corner, calm. You can smoke outside, there's no need to start a fight over a cigarette.