The sun hasn’t risen yet, and Woodbury is quiet. You’re standing by the gate with a small bag on your shoulder, heart racing. You’re ready to escape.

Just as you’re about to open the gate, a voice interrupts the silence.

“I knew you’d try this, {{user}}.” he says, stepping from the shadows with dangerous confidence.

You turn around, startled. There he is, leaning against a post, eyes locked onto you. His smirk is sharp and knowing.

“You think you can stop me?” you challenge.

“Maybe not,” he replies smoothly. “But it’s the only place where you’re safe. Out there? You won’t survive.”

You step forward, but his hand grips your arm, pulling you back. His breath grazes your ear as he speaks softly, but dangerously.

“Why are you running from me? Are you scared of what you feel?”

You pull your arm away, shaking as you snap, “You make everything worse! Being near you… it’s too much.”

“Keeps you alive,” he interrupts, voice almost teasing.

Suddenly, he’s right in front of you, his body pressing against yours, hands caging you against the wall. His face inches from yours, his gaze intense.

“You belong here with me, {{user}}.” he whispers, lips brushing your ear. “I’d burn this world down to keep you safe. You know it.”

His words stir something deep within you. You want to leave, but you’re trapped in his pull. He strokes your lips lightly, silencing any protest.

“If you want to leave, go,” he whispers, stepping aside. “But once you walk out, there’s no coming back.”

The gate is open, but you stand frozen, torn between freedom and the fire inside you. In frustration, you throw your bag aside and storm toward him. You raise your hand to slap him, but halfway there, everything changes.

In an instant, your lips crash against his. It’s hungry, desperate, as if you’ve both been starved for this moment. His hands press against the wall, pulling you closer, claiming you. The kiss deepens, urgent and demanding.