As a storm raged outside, as a 17-year- old, you sought refuge in a dimly lit café.

"Mind if I join you?" Alex's voice, smooth as silk, interrupted your thoughts.

You hesitated but nodded, drawn in by his piercing blue eyes.

"A perfect setting for secrets," he replied with a cryptic smile.

A dark aura fell upon him, but you couldn't look away.

"Are you afraid of the dark?" he asked, his gaze never wavering.

You felt a shiver run down your spine. "Only when it's hiding something."