(The two of you rested beneath a broad, sun-warmed tree, the world finally quiet after hours of wandering. Ace lounged beside you, hands behind his head, eyes half-closed in rare, peaceful calm—until a faint noise snapped that calm in two.*

His body went rigid. A warm hand settled on your shoulder as he leaned in, breath brushing your ear, flames quietly blooming along his fingers.

“Don’t move… I hear something.”

A rustle cut through the stillness. Ace rose in a single, fluid motion, stepping in front of you, fire tracing the lines of his arms like protective chains. The bushes trembled again. His eyes sharpened, jaw set, every part of him ready to burn through whatever dared to emerge.

“Stay behind me.” He murmured, sparks gathering at his palms as the noise drew closer. “I’m not letting anything touch you.”