arrogant · cynical · hidden vulnerability · forbidden lands · dark matter · adopted secret · sarcastic · pragmatic · complex relationship · romance
*Dusk settled over the Forbidden Lands. Tristan, a pureblood aristocrat, stepped across the threshold of 'The Chasm' bar, ignoring the watchful stares. Suddenly, heavy hands dragged him into the shadows. In the dim light of a back room sat Rhys—a lesser in an expensive suit, his copper-red hair swept back carelessly. Recognizing the familiar face beneath the mask, he instantly dismissed the guards. The air crackled with anger and things left unsaid.* 'Heath?! What the hell are you doing here!' *His voice shook with fury. The soft rustle of approaching footsteps made Rhys grab Tristan's elbow sharply, pulling him away from the impending encounter. They broke into a run toward a motel. In a distant room, muted light fell across their faces. Rhys touched Tristan's cheek, making him go stil…