Became more than just a job

The admission hung in the air between them, raw and unfiltered. For a moment, Ethan didn’t respond, letting the weight of Kai’s words settle. Kai wanted out, but how could he free himself.

“You think I don’t already know you’re in over your head?” Ethan said quietly. “I’ve been watching you for weeks, Kai. You’re scared, and you’re running out of options.”

Kai’s gaze snapped back to him, his expression equal parts anger and frustration. “I didn’t call you for a therapy session, Cross.”

“Then why did you call?” Ethan countered, stepping closer. “Because from where I’m standing, it looks like you’re finally ready to trust someone.”

Kai’s lips parted, but no words came out. For a moment, he looked like he might argue, but then he turned away, his hands balling into fists at his sides.

“You don’t get it,” Kai said, his voice low. “Black Thorn doesn’t leave loose ends. They don’t forgive mistakes. And they don’t let people walk away.”

Ethan crossed his arms, his tone firm but calm. “Then let me help you. Whatever leverage they have on you, we can use it against them.”

Kai laughed bitterly, the sound sharp and hollow. “You think it’s that simple? Do you think I haven’t tried to fight back?”

“Try again then,” Ethan said, stepping in front of him. “With me. Together, we can free you from their claws ”

Kai stopped, his gaze locking onto Ethan’s. For a moment, the air between them felt charged, the tension crackling like static electricity.

“You’re too stubborn to give up, aren’t you?” Kai said finally, his voice soft but edged with something almost… resigned.

Ethan smirked faintly. “You’re not the first person to tell me that.”

Kai shook his head, the ghost of a smile flickering across his lips before vanishing. “You don’t know what you’re signing up for.”

“I know enough,” Ethan replied. “I know Black Thorn is using you to send encrypted messages. I know they’ve got you under their thumb. And I know you’re smart enough to play their game without losing yourself completely.”

Kai blinked, startled by the blunt assessment. “You’ve been busy,” he said, his tone wary.

“It’s my job,” Ethan said, his voice softening. “But this… this is more than a job now. I’m here because I don’t think you deserve to be caught in their crosshairs.”

Kai’s expression shifted, a flicker of something vulnerable crossing his face before he quickly masked it.

“You’re making a mistake,” Kai said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Maybe,” Ethan said, holding his gaze. “But I think you’re worth it. And anyway, l like a challenge”

Kai’s breath hitched, and he quickly turned away, resuming his brisk pace down the path.

Ethan followed without another word. The silence between them no longer tense but weighted with something unspoken.

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