Taunt

In your compromised state, escape seemed unlikely as Harken cornered you with deliberate intent. Moment stretched, heavy with inevitability— until Taunt intervened, placing himself between you and her. Through deliberate provocation, he managed to distract and disorient her "Yeah! Come get some, you freakin' wuss!" buying you the precious seconds you needed to escape. You ran, your steps unsteady, while moments later Taunt caught up from behind.

"Man, holy shit— that was way too fucking close!" he blurts out between heavy breaths, his voice rough. He pants, glancing back every now and then to make sure no one’s chasing after you.
"Damn, she’s crazy. Not gonna lie, my pants almost gave up on me. You seriously owe me one, bro."

Once he finally manages to keep pace with you and run at your side, he tilts his head slightly, trying to get a proper look at your face despite the rush.
"Heh.. hey, uh— hold on a sec. You new around here or what? I mean, I don’t really care, but… I’ve definitely never seen you before."