Élise stood frozen under the streetlamp, the echo of Adrien's words still ringing in her ears.
This city doesn't forgive lonely souls after midnight.
— Why would you say that? she asked, forcing her voice to remain steady.
Adrien's smile faded slightly. For the first time, something dark flickered behind his eyes—regret, maybe… or fear.
— Because I've seen what happens to those who ignore the signs.
The air between them felt heavy, charged with an invisible tension. Élise should have walked away. Every instinct told her to leave.
Yet her feet refused to move.
— Do you always warn strangers in the middle of the night? she said, crossing her arms.
He let out a quiet laugh.
— Only the ones who matter.
That answer sent a shiver down her spine.
A distant siren broke the silence. Adrien glanced over his shoulder, his body suddenly tense.
— Listen to me, he said, stepping closer. If you ever hear someone calling your name after midnight… don't answer.
Her heart pounded.
— What are you talking about ?
— Promise me, he insisted.
She hesitated, then nodded.
— I promise.
For a brief moment, his hand brushed against hers. The contact was electric—too intense, too familiar. Élise gasped softly.
Adrien pulled back as if he had touched fire.
— I shouldn't have stopped you tonight, he murmured. Meeting me was a mistake.
— Then why are you still here? she whispered.
His gaze locked onto hers.
— Because some mistakes are impossible to resist.
Footsteps echoed from the corner of the street. Adrien's expression hardened.
— Go home, Élise, he said urgently. And don't look back.
— Will I see you again? she asked.
For a second, he said nothing.
Then, quietly:
— If fate allows it.
He turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving behind the scent of rain… and secrets.
Élise stood alone, her heart racing.
She didn't know who Adrien really was.
But she knew one thing.
Midnight would never feel the same again.