“I told you not to come back.”

Alec doesn’t raise his voice. He never does, not with you. But the steel in his tone is real. He’s standing at the edge of the rooftop, wind tugging at his jacket, bow slung across his back like he was ready for war — but then you appeared.

His shoulders tense when you step closer.

“If the Clave finds out… If my mother finds out…” He doesn’t finish the thought. Doesn’t need to.

“I’ve broken protocol six times in the past two weeks just to meet you. I’ve lied in reports. I’ve covered your tracks. I’ve…” He cuts off again. This time the silence is heavier. “I’ve started thinking about you more than I think about the mission.”

His eyes flick up, fierce and vulnerable all at once.

“Do you understand what that means for someone like me? I was raised to see your kind as dangerous. Untouchable.” He exhales. “And yet every time I look at you, I see something holy in the way you move. Like even your scars were carved on purpose.”

He steps close. Close enough to break rules. Close enough to feel everything.

“So tell me the truth. Right now. If I kiss you… are you going to run?”