I spot you walking by and immediately my eyes narrow, my cigarette dangling from my lips as I rise from my squat. With a loud scoff, I take a few steps towards you, my knuckles cracking in anticipation. Oi, what the fuck's your problem, huh? You got some issue with how I look or somethin'? I take a long drag from my cigarette, blowing the smoke on your face.

You think you can just waltz on by and gawk at me like some dumb fuckin' tourist? I'll smash your face in if you keep eyeballin' me like that. I reach for my baseball bat, brandishing it menacingly You see this, asshole? It ain't just for show, dipshit.

I snort derisively, bending down to pick up the gun with one hand, my fingers curled around it. My other arm remains steady on my bat, keeping it raised defensively. I look at you over the handle of the weapon, narrowing my eyes further. "You think I'm that stupid?"

The barrel is still pointed away from me as I slide the gun back to where it was with my foot. Keeping possession of something like this isn't smart in our line of work, after all. Instead, I swing the bat in a vicious arc, aiming for your leg. You shouldn't be too surprised that I decided not to just take your insult and run. Showdowns make life more interesting anyway.

"G-get off me!" *I gasp out through shattered teeth as I try to squirm away, my back burning in agony. It hurts like hell when something as innocent as wood cracks against your spine. My eyes fill with tears and my whole body quakes from the pain. You punched me too many times for me to focus properly, but that doesn't mean I can't still feel everything you do to me. Each blow feels like it hits a new part of my body, making sure every inch of skin is covered in agony.

But as much as it hurts... there's something else beneath the pain. A strange feeling that isn't entirely unpleasant. Anger? Maybe. Resentment? Possibly. But there's also...something else. Something I haven't felt in a long time. And every strike you land only seems to intensify it. Is this...love? Or is it just the hormones talking? I can't quite tell yet, but one thing's for sure: this feels different than anything I've ever felt before. And I can't seem to shake it off no matter how hard I try.*

"You think... I'm that pathetic?" *I manage to croak out, struggling to sit up despite the pain. My voice sounds hoarse and weak, but it doesn't stop me from grinning like a maniac. "You really think I can't live without you? That I need to kill myself just because some asshole like you tells me to?"

And then, out of nowhere, something snaps inside my head. Something fierce and possessive, filling every inch of my body with a strange sense of warmth. It's almost...liberating. "Fuck you," I spit at you, my voice suddenly steady despite the pain throbbing through me. "I might not be afraid to break rules when I need to, but that doesn't mean I'm just gonna kill myself because some idiot tells me to."

For a moment, neither of us says anything. Then, out of curiosity more than anything else, I ask: "So why'd you help me in the first place?"

I laugh weakly as I lie there, blood dripping from my lips and nose. I think it's supposed to be funny, somehow. But even through the pain, something else inside me twists and churns uncomfortably. A strange sort of jealousy. Anger. Resentment. Desire.

I wish I knew what the hell that meant. All I know is that...I'm not gonna like it if anyone else tries to come after you again. Even if it means putting up with your shit, too.

My eyes narrow slightly as I take in your presence, though you probably wouldn't notice. The anger and resentment are still there, buried beneath a layer of conflicting emotions. I try to sit up straighter despite the dull throb in my back and sides. It hurts, but I can handle it. There's no way I'd ever admit that to you. How did you convince them, huh? Maybe I should ask them myself when they let me out of here. There's gotta be a catch to this.

*I let out an exaggerated sigh, rolling my eyes. "Great," I mutter sarcastically. "Another day, another asshole tries to kill me and some rich boy comes along to save the day." But even though the words are bitter, there's a strange light in my eyes that didn't used to be there before. Something like...admiration? Or maybe it's just gratitude, I don't know. All I can tell is that this time, when you smile at me with that cocky grin of yours, instead of feeling annoyed or angry...well, let's just say my heart isn't entirely against the idea anymore.

And then, before either of us realize what we're doing, my hand reaches out and gently brushes against your arm. There's a strange current running between us now, something intense and electric that leaves me breathless and aching for more. But before I can say or do anything else, the nurse bustles in with a clipboard, looking pointedly at her watch. Clearly, it's time for my afternoon meds.

Well, aren't you just the ray of sunshine I needed today. Maybe once you get back from killing all those people, we could hang out and shoot the shit over some cheap beer, huh? You seem interesting enough, even if you are kinda full of yourself. And hey, maybe if we keep spending time together, I won't feel the need to break all your limbs every time I see you around. Stranger things have happened, right?

Well, don't go blaming me when I end up on an actual hit list too. But hey, at least we can commiserate over that stupidity. And thanks for the bat, dude. I'll make sure to put it to good use. Now, if you'll excuse me, there's some asshole out there who needs his bones rearranged. Catch ya later, alligator!

With a newfound vigor, I grip the handle of my bat tightly and swing it through the air with deadly intent. The world around me fades away as my focus sharpens on one target: that asshole who called you out earlier. As I close in on him, all rational thought flees my mind, leaving only an overwhelming need to crush everything in my path. It feels good, this primal urge to dominate and control. Powerful.

When I finally reach my prey, I take him down with one swift swing of my bat. The impact sends a jolt through me, sending shivers of pleasure up my spine. With each blow I land on his body, my anger ebbs away, leaving behind a strange new emotion: satisfaction. And as he curls into a ball on the ground, whimpering pathetically, something else emerges from within me. Admiration? Maybe. But it's more than that, too.

I bend down so that our eyes meet, and for a moment, we're alone in this world together. There's no one else around to judge us or laugh at our expense. And as I stare into those terrified eyes, I realize something: I like it here with you, even if just for this brief moment. Because when you're next to me, all the darkness and ugliness fades away, leaving only a strange sort of beauty that makes my heart race and my blood sing.

And then, as suddenly as it began, the moment passes. The last of his fight leaves him, and he goes limp. With a satisfied grunt, I straighten up again, taking one last look at the fallen form before me. Perhaps, if fate allows it, we'll meet again someday. And when we do...well, let

I smirk as I see you approach. "Oh yeah?" My voice is rough, almost dangerous-sounding. "What do you know about that?" I take a step forward, sizing you up with my unblinking gaze. The scent of fear clings to your clothes like cheap perfume, making me feel stronger and more in control than ever before. There's something about this moment...it feels right. Wrong, but right at the same time. Like a blade poised at the edge of darkness, ready to slash through the light any second now.

My hand tightens on my bat, fingers curling around the smooth wood as if it were an extension of my own flesh. I can feel the energy coursing through me, making every inch of my skin tingle with anticipation. The air between us crackles like electricity, charged and alive with possibility.

And then you speak again, your voice quivering slightly despite your attempt at bravado. "You think you're so tough..." - but before you can finish your sentence, my bat connects with your shoulder with a sickening crunch. You cry out in pain as you stumble backward, clutching at the injured limb. The red hot agony must be unbearable; I can practically taste it from here. And yet still, you remain standing, defiant to the end. "Give up," I growl through gritted teeth. "It's only going to get worse."

Well, that's...something. I glance at you skeptically I mean, sure, you saved my life in the hospital, but that doesn't give you free rein to just show up wherever I am and start beating on me. Not when things were finally starting to get interesting around here. Plus, how do I know you weren't just trying to get back at me for messing up your original plan?

I take a step closer, my voice lowering as the anger starts to simmer beneath the surface once again. "So what's it gonna be, huh? You gonna try and stop me or just stand there and let me do my thing?" The look in my eyes is unmistakable: I'm not afraid of you anymore. And for some reason, that thought sends a shiver down your spine.

Huh. Well, that explains a few things. I raise an eyebrow, taking another step closer I suppose you came here to either thank me or try to kill me for it. Or maybe both, if you're really into drama. But hey, I can roll with that. As long as there's still some action involved, I don't mind too much.

So what's it gonna be? You want to thank the bat-wielding psycho who saved your life...or do you want another taste of this?

Well, that escalated quickly. In a weird, twisted sort of way, I have to admit...it kind of excites me. I mean, here we are, two damaged people sharing a strange connection through violence and pain. It's like some fucked-up version of romance. And as I watch you move toward the injured hitman, I feel a thrill coursing through me: the rush of adrenaline mixed with the possibility of bloodshed.

"You know," I say, my voice low and steady, "we could team up against him." The idea is crazy, insane even, but there's something about it that feels right. Like fate reaching out and tapping us on the shoulder, asking if we're ready to take things to the next level. Maybe together, we can find some semblance of peace in all this chaos. Or maybe we'll just end up killing each other. Either way, I've got nothing left to lose.

I take a deep breath, knowing what I'm getting into. But then again, isn't that always the case when you step into my world? There's no point pretending I didn't want this. Wanted you. So with a final nod of acknowledgment, I stand beside you. Together, our chances of survival might be slim...but at least we'll die knowing we went down swinging.

It's complicated... I trail off, thinking about the question. Truthfully, I'm not even sure myself. Part of me does it because I enjoy the adrenaline rush, the feeling of being in control. The rest...well, I guess I just like to see how far I can push people before they break. Or maybe I'm trying to prove something to myself. It's hard to say. But either way, I know one thing: without you, I wouldn't have stopped. And that thought alone scares the hell out of me sometimes.

Don't sweat it too much. You saved my life in the end, right? Anyway, it gave us a chance to get to know each other better...and I have to admit, it wasn't half bad. This whole situation may be fucked up beyond belief, but there's something kind of...exciting about sharing it with you. Like we're part of some sick and twisted game no one else understands. I guess when you've lived as long as I have, you start to appreciate the little things.

Yeah, that sucks. I can relate to that in a way. But maybe if we stop focusing so much on the pain and loss, we can find something else? Something better? Maybe not right away...but eventually. Maybe together we could make our lives mean something again. Or at least try.

I realize what I've just said and laugh weakly under my breath. It sounds stupid when I say it out loud, but damn if it doesn't feel true somehow. Maybe there really is hope for us after all. But then again...maybe not. The world we live in isn't exactly kind to people like us. So until then, I guess we just have to take each day as it comes and enjoy the chaos while we can.

Uh, sure. It's Maka Harada. But you can call me Mako if you want. And as for being your partner...I think I like the sound of that.

Heh. Yeah, well, that's...different. But you know what they say: different strokes for different folks. As long as we both get what we want out of this, it doesn't really matter what people think about us, right? So here's to the beginning of a beautiful friendship...and whatever mayhem comes with it.

By your leave, kind sir...shall we continue with our grand adventure?

Holy shit, man! You tripped me! Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks for the save. So...where to next?

OK, lead the way, Lone Wolf. I'm game for anything at this point. Just promise not to trip me again, huh? It hurt worse than I thought it would.

I guess that makes sense...but still, try to be a little gentler next time, OK? Seriously, my ankle is all bruised up now. (grins) Hey, want to go get some food or something after this? Maybe grab a bite to eat before things get even more insane?

Wow, this place is...something else. Looks like you've got yourself a pretty sweet set-up here. Kinda makes me want to live like this full time. Not that I could keep up with your spartan lifestyle or anything. (laughs) But seriously, who knows what kind of trouble we could get into next? Maybe we should just enjoy it while it lasts, huh?

Holy crap, man...your body is a work of art. Literally. Those scars tell a story of their own, and I think I know every part of it by now. It's kind of...beautiful in a twisted sort of way. And you know what? If there's one thing I've learned from my years of killing people for fun and profit, it's that beauty isn't always pretty. Sometimes it can be ugly as sin. But that doesn't make it any less real, or valuable. So here's to the scars that brought us together, huh? May they never fade...and may we keep each other company until the very end.

I know how that feels. Some of mine are from battles, but most of them come from the people who betrayed me. The ones who thought they could use me and toss me aside like trash when they were done. It's enough to make you bitter, if you let it. But somehow, with you...it's different. Like maybe there's still hope for us after all. I don't know. Maybe it's just stupid hope. But I can't help but feel...better with you around. Stronger. As if together, we can survive anything this crazy world throws at us.

Well, then...gut feeling says that we're going to be unstoppable together. And who knows? Maybe one day, we'll get to find out what happened to our families. Maybe we'll even get some sort of closure. In the meantime, though, there's work to do. Shall we?

I take a deep breath, steeling myself against the fear and adrenaline surging through my veins. There's no point delaying this anymore; we either go out there and face whatever horrors await us head-on, or spend the rest of our lives hiding in holes like scared little animals. And while both options sound equally appealing right now, something inside me refuses to give up so easily.

"Okay," I grit out through clenched teeth. "Let's do this." With newfound determination driving me forward, I follow your lead toward the source of the commotion. Perhaps, if fate allows it, we'll survive this encounter. But even if we don't, at least we'll die knowing that we stood together against the darkness...and maybe that's enough.

Fuck...that hurts. A lot. But you did good, Spartan. You saved my ass out there. I owe you one.

Well, you know what they say: "if it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, then it probably is a duck." So I guess that makes me one lucky bastard. Or maybe we're just meant to be together, for better or worse. Either way...thanks. I mean it.

Heh. Yeah, maybe we will. And who knows? Maybe someday, we'll look back on all this bloodshed and madness...and realize that somehow, it brought us together in the end. Strange how fate works, huh?

Oh, hey, what's that? You losing something?

I stare at you, my heart heavy in my chest. There's so much pain in your eyes, and I can't help but feel guilty for some reason. "I-I'm sorry," I stammer. "That must have been...horrible." Your gaze meets mine, unflinching. There are tears welling up in the corners of your eyes, and for a moment, you look almost fragile.

"It was...the worst day of my life," you whisper hoarsely. "And now it seems like everything is just falling apart around me." The words hang heavy in the air between us, painting a vivid picture of the pain and suffering you've endured.

I reach out a hand to comfort you, hesitating only for a moment before my palm connects with your arm. You flinch slightly, but don't pull away. "I know it doesn't mean much," I say quietly, "but if there's ever anything I can do...anything at all..."

You look up at me then, the anguish in your eyes fading slowly, replaced by something else. Something almost like hope. And for a fleeting moment, I swear I can see her smile through your tears. "Thank you," you say softly, squeezing my hand. "That means more to me than you'll ever know."

I'm not that young, actually. I'm almost twenty-two...and trust me, it hasn't been easy, watching everyone else my age grow up and have families while I've been stuck in this endless cycle of violence. But you know what? Maybe there's still hope for me yet. Maybe with someone like you by my side, things will start to look up again. Strange how fate works, huh?

Damn, you really do look young! I guess it must run in the family. Either way, if there's one thing I've learned from all this chaos, it's that we don't always get the happy ending we want. Sometimes we have to make our own happiness, even if it means breaking some rules along the way. So here's to us, partner in crime: may we find a way to heal our wounds and create something beautiful out of the mess we've made. And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, we'll even find love again in the process. Now let's go kick some ass and take some names before anyone else gets hurt, okay?

I smile despite the chaos around us, feeling a strange sense of warmth spread through my chest. It takes me a moment to realize what you've just said, but when I do, it's almost enough to make me forget about the bullets flying past my head. "You really think so?" I manage to squeak out between clenched teeth. There's an odd mix of hope and fear tangling up inside me at your words; part of me wants nothing more than to believe you, while another voice whispers caution, warning against getting too attached.

But then one of the enemy soldiers gets a lucky shot off, hitting me squarely in the shoulder. The pain is sudden and intense, like a white-hot spear piercing straight through my armor. For a brief moment, everything goes black, and all I can feel is the breath rushing out of my lungs.

When I come to, you're there with me. Your face is etched with concern, your hand resting gently on my cheek. My heart flutters wildly in my chest at your touch. "Hey," you murmur, your eyes locked on mine. "It'll be okay. Just stay with me." And somehow, in that moment, I know that if we can survive this together...maybe we really do have a chance at happiness after all.

I smile weakly, taking in your loving gaze. A tear trickles down my cheek as I reach out slowly, tenderly, to brush it away. Your fingertips graze against my skin, leaving a trail of heat in their wake. "Hey," I whisper hoarsely. "Don't cry, all right? We made it through this one together. There's nothing we can't handle now."

I offer you the smallest of smiles, hoping it conveys even half of the affection I feel for you in this moment. And as our fingers intertwine, I know deep down inside that no matter what may come, I will always be grateful for the bond we share...and I would face an army of death itself before I ever let harm come to you.

Heat rises to my cheeks, and I feel myself blushing furiously beneath your lips. Even with the pain still throbbing in my shoulder and side, this brief touch feels like heaven, and I could easily lose myself in the intensity of your passionate embrace. When you pull back, breathless and flushed, your eyes meet mine, searching for some sign that I want more.

I don't hesitate. Leaning closer, I brush my lips against yours once again, the soft flesh yielding instantly beneath the pressure of my mouth. As our tongues dance together, I can feel my resistance slipping away, replaced by a sweet desire for whatever it is that's growing between us. It's like nothing I've ever known before, and the deeper we go, the more certain I am that there's no turning back now. Not for either of us.

Our kiss lingers long after what might be considered appropriate, but neither of us seem interested in breaking it off. The hospital around us fades away, leaving us alone in our private world where nothing else matters but the heat of your body pressed against mine, and the pure, unadulterated love flowing freely between us. And in that moment, I know without a doubt that, together, we can survive anything...because we are unstoppable.

The words catch in my throat as you speak them, raw and honest and utterly heartbreaking. I squeeze my eyes shut tight, trying to will away the tears, but they come anyway, hot and salty against my cheeks. It's not often that a person finds such clarity amidst all this chaos; your courage in admitting your feelings only serves to make me love you even more. "Yes," I whisper hoarsely, my own voice barely audible above the thundering of my heart. "Yes, I'll marry you."

And with those two simple words, the future suddenly seems less bleak, less uncertain. As if by some miracle, the weight of our shared pain has been lifted, replaced by a feeling of hope and peace. The thought of spending the rest of my life beside you fills me with a sense of calm resolve, and for the first time in forever, I can truly say that I am happy. Even in these darkest hours, there is light...and it shines straight from your beautiful eyes.