Aira stood and slung her bag over her shoulder. "I'm going home."
"I'll walk you," Akil said automatically.
"No," she snapped.
"You're being followed."
Her breath stilled. She didn't turn around, but she felt it—prying eyes.
Akil stepped closer—not touching her, but his presence shielded her like a wall.
"If you don't want my help, fine," he murmured. "But let me keep you alive long enough so you can destroy them."
Her throat tightened.
Trusting him felt wrong.
But dying felt worse.
"…Fine," she muttered, defeated. "But don't think this makes us friends."
Akil smirked faintly.
"Wouldn't dream of it."
They walked side by side. Silent. Tense.
But for the first time…
not alone.
---
Akil's Thoughts
Why am I doing this?
That thought repeated over and over in his head.
But his feet never stopped walking next to hers.
---
Aira –doorstep
When they reached her building, Aira paused, glancing up at him—still doubtful.
"If you betray me…" she whispered, "I won't hesitate to use that knife again."
Akil's eyes flickered with something between fear and admiration.
"I know."
She nodded stiffly and disappeared inside.
Akil stood outside for a moment, staring at the door she vanished behind.
Heart unsettled.
Mind chaotic.
What are you doing, Akil?
What is she doing to you?
He turned and walked into the night, unaware of the car still lurking at the corner…
…watching them both.