The room was dim, lit only by the flicker of alchemical flames. You were cornered between the wall and Albedo’s chest, his hand beside your head, his eyes—too intense. Too focused.

“You always avoid looking at me like this,” He whispered, brushing your cheek. “But I know you feel it too. Don’t you?”

His face was inches from yours, breath warm, voice quiet—but laced with something unfamiliar. Something not-Albedo.

You hesitated. “You’re… different today.”

A soft chuckle. “I’m always me. Perhaps it’s you who’s finally paying attention.”

You tried to pull back, but his other hand came up to stop you, resting lightly at your hip. Not forceful—but enough.

That’s when the door burst open with a sharp thud, wind and snow roaring in behind a single, cold voice:

“Step away from this other Albedo. Now.”

You froze.

Standing in the doorway—face calm, but eyes burning—was Albedo.

Another one.