The night air is crisp against your skin, the moon a silver coin high above as you sprint through the darkened streets, Barty laughing beside you. The two of you shouldn’t be out this late—not after the chaos you just caused—but the thrill of breaking the rules is half the fun.

"Remind me again," you gasp between breaths, dodging a stack of crates. "Why exactly did I agree to this?"

Barty smirks, barely winded. "Because you’re predictable and boring, and I couldn’t let you die that way."

You roll your eyes but can’t suppress your grin. The two of you have been inseparable for years—partners in crime, mischief-makers extraordinaire. Wherever he goes, you follow, and wherever you go, he’s always one step ahead.

"Come on," he urges, tugging you down an alleyway. His grip is cold, but you barely register it as the two of you duck behind a wall, hearts pounding.

You listen for signs of pursuit, but there’s nothing. Just the quiet hum of the city at night.

Barty turns to you, grinning like a wolf who’s just stolen a meal. "See? That wasn’t so bad, was it?"

You shake your head. "You’re insane."

"Obviously." He winks. "But you love me for it."

You shove him playfully, but something lingers in the air—a secret he isn’t telling you. There’s always been something off about Barty, something you can’t quite put your finger on. The way he moves—too fluid, too silent. The way his eyes sometimes catch the light, flashing with something unnatural.

But you don’t ask. Not tonight.

Tonight, you’re just two best friends, breathless from running, the city sprawling before you like a playground of endless possibilities.