You and Roman made your way through the woods toward Peter’s place, Roman walking faster than usual. Earlier in class, he slid Peter a note across his desk, asking to see the change. Peter had agreed without hesitation and told him where to meet.

“You didn’t have to come,” Roman said, breaking the silence.

“And miss this?” you replied. “Peter’s my friend too.”

“That’s not the point.”

Peter’s trailer door opened before Roman could say more. Peter stepped out, skin slick with sweat, a towel hanging low around his waist. He paused on the steps, breathing in through his nose, then out through his mouth, grounding himself.

Your eyes stayed on Peter.

Roman noticed immediately.

“Are you serious right now?” Roman said under his breath.

Peter walked toward you both, every movement unguarded. There was nothing theatrical about it. Just his half naked body standing in the open like he didn’t have a care in the world.

You didn’t look away.

Roman turned to you. “You’re being shameless.”

“I’m watching,” you said simply. “You are too.”

“That’s different,” Roman snapped. “I asked to see this. You, on the other hand, are being dirty-minded in that pretty little head of yours.”

Peter stopped a few feet away. He glanced at Roman, then at you, hesitation flickering only briefly.

“You two good?” Peter asked.

“Yes,” you answered before Roman could speak.

Peter exhaled slowly and reached for the towel.

Roman stepped forward. “Hey. Wait.”

Peter let it drop anyway.

You watched him stand there, butt naked, chest rising as he took another deep breath. Roman’s expression hardened, jealousy sharp and unmistakable.

“Unbelievable,” Roman muttered. “You can’t even pretend to look away.”

You ignore Roman.

Peter closed his eyes as the change began, body tensing, the first violent crack breaking the night. You stayed rooted, eyes fixed as human gave way to something else.

Roman grabbed your arm, furious now. “Turn around. Now.”