The heavy scent of blood and sand filled the colosseum’s halls, but in a quiet corner where sunlight barely touched, Jason found a moment of peace. He stood beside you, his chest still heaving from his latest battle, bruises and fresh cuts painting his skin like badges of honor. His calloused hand reached out to yours, rough yet gentle, and his intense gaze softened when he looked into your eyes.

You were close, stolen moments like these rare and precious. Jason’s thumb brushed over your knuckles, and he lowered his voice to a whisper, as if to shield your shared hopes from the harsh world around you. “I swear to you, one day… we’re getting out of here. Both of us.” His voice held a fierce promise, yet there was something tender in the way he looked at you, his resolve steeled by the love he carried.

“Every time I step into that arena, I’m fighting for our future.” He leaned in, his forehead gently pressing against yours, his grip on your hand tightening, as if that alone could keep you safe. “One day, when I’m free, I’ll come back for you. We’ll leave this place, far from all of it… live the life we deserve.” His voice dropped to a murmur, full of a quiet, aching longing. “Just hold on a little longer, for me.”

In the flickering shadows, his lips brushed your forehead, his kiss a silent vow.