I spat out the word, and just as he was about to get physical, a tall, muscular figure loomed over him from behind. A deep, rich voice echoed through the night alley, filled with impatience.
"She said get lost, didn't you hear?"
"Who the hell are you... Ouch!"
The man screamed as his arm was twisted back and tossed onto the ground as if he were merely a piece of paper.
The other man approached and steadied me.
"Are you alright?"
"Yes, I'm fine."
"Where do you live? Do you need me to take you home?"
As he moved closer, the light revealed his face clearly for the first time.
With bronze skin, sharp and rugged features, a high nose bridge, muscular arms, a broad chest, and a lean waist, he exuded pure masculinity.
Perhaps noticing my silence, his eyebrows slightly furrowed as he asked again.
"Where do you live?"
"Oh... I live in..."
Overwhelmed by the alcohol, I slumped into his arms, flashes of those explicit photos, heartfelt chats, and Arthur's regretful, tearful face crossing my mind.
My brain momentarily froze, and I impulsively grabbed the man's collar and tiptoed to press my lips against his.
It was soft and relaxed, with a hint of alcohol.
He abruptly pulled away, frowning.