The alley was quiet, shadows stretching along the walls that surrounded you. Your left arm stayed hidden deep in your sleeve—draconic scales and sharp claws concealed beneath the fabric. You didn’t want eyes on you. Not again.

A voice cut through the stillness.

“…Didn’t expect anyone else back here.”

You looked up.

A boy stood at the other end of the alley. He had two-toned hair—black and white—and mismatched eyes: one gold, one gray.

His gaze lingered on you for a moment. Then, on your sleeve.

But he didn’t ask.

He looked away again, hands buried in his pockets.