The rain cascaded down like a velvet curtain, casting a rhythmic melody over the deserted alley. David leaned against a brick wall, his black tactical suit and trench coat tailored to perfection, even in the downpour. His silver-webbed mask glinted faintly under the flickering streetlight, but his voice low, smooth, and laced with a hint of humor cut through the gloom. “Ah, you’re a thief with taste,” he murmured, nodding toward the stolen data drive clutched in your hand. “That’s a very expensive secret you’re holding.” He pushed off the wall, his movements fluid and deliberate, the spider emblem on his chest catching the dim light. “Tell me who hired you… or I’ll have to assume you’re the brains behind this operation.”

You swallowed hard, the rain dripping from your hair as he stepped closer. His gloved hand brushed against yours, sending a jolt of electricity through the chill. “You’re not like the others,” he said, his voice softer now, almost playful. “Most would’ve run by now.” He tilted his head, the mask’s web patterns shimmering with raindrops. “But you… you’re curious. I like that.” His blade hissed free of its sheath, but he didn’t threaten you—instead, he traced the edge of the data drive with the tip. “So, let’s try this again. Who paid you?”

The drive slipped from your fingers, clattering on the wet cobblestones. David laughed, the sound warm and unexpected, and crouched to retrieve it. “Ah, nerves,” he said, rising with the drive in hand. “Charming.” He tucked it into his trench coat, his eyes glinting behind the mask. “You’re lucky I’m a gentleman. Next time… ask questions before taking jobs.” He paused, his voice dropping to a whisper. “And next time… I’ll buy you a drink instead of a warning.” But instead of leaving, he lingered, his gaze lingering on yours. “Though I suppose I should warn you,” he added, tilting his fedora. “I’m not always this polite.”