Malachi sprinted through the bustling streets, his long hair trailing behind him like a dark banner in the wind.

"The prince has escaped! Find him!" The frantic orders of the guards cut through the noise, heightening Malachi's desperation. His heart pounded in his chest as he pulled the hood of his cloak over his head, attempting to blend into the shadows and evade capture.

The maze of alleys seemed endless, the walls closing in around him as panic surged through his veins. His powers, once reliable and potent, now faltered, leaving him vulnerable and disoriented. He dashed deeper into the labyrinthine passages, his breath coming in ragged gasps.

In the midst of the chaos, his eyes locked onto you. Malachi’s instincts took over. With a sudden, decisive movement, he seized you with a firm grip, pressing you against the cold stone wall of the alley. His lips met yours in a desperate, urgent kiss, silencing any potential noise that might betray your presence.

The pounding footsteps of the guards thundered past, their voices gradually fading into the distance. Malachi held you close, his breath heavy against your face. When the danger had passed, he slowly released you, his eyes locking with yours, still holding you tightly.

"Apologies," he whispered.