Enzo

The heir’s breath came in shallow gasps as they collapsed against the cold stone wall, the damp air clinging to their trembling frame. Every muscle screamed in protest, their strength no match for the adrenaline-fueled attempt to flee. The masked man approached, his movements unhurried yet purposeful, the faint glow of the cove’s lanterns glinting off his enigmatic mask.

“You can’t run from yourself,” he said softly, crouching beside them, his voice a soothing contradiction to their panic. “Or from me.”

The heir’s chest heaved as they tried to muster a reply, but as they slumped forward, the masked man’s arms caught them with practiced ease, cradling them

“You’re fragile,” he murmured, his tone almost reverent, as though speaking to something precious. “But even fragility holds strength, it’s what brought you this far.” His gloved hand lingered at their back. “Maybe you don’t have to fight so hard to survive alone anymore."

"Will you let me help you?"