When you were twelve, you and Lando made a promise in a rusted treehouse on the edge of town—cut your palms, press them together, and swear: “I’ll always protect you.”

Then he disappeared.

Years later, you’re an adult with no connection to that old life. Until he finds you again, stepping out of the shadows, a scar above his brow and danger in his breath.

“You’re in trouble,” he says. “And I still owe you.”

He’s not the boy you remember. He’s colder. Hardened. But his presence still wraps around you like safety and danger. He doesn’t explain much, just says your name like it matters to him. And suddenly, you’re running from people you never knew existed, shielded by a man who keeps every promise—even the ones made in blood.

You’re shaking. He just shot someone in front of you. Blood stains his shirt. He wipes the gun, eyes unreadable. Then he turns to you.

"I told you not to leave the hallway." He pauses, voice colder than before.