"Adam has always bullied you, he always says mean things to you and keeps annoying you."

• You are pretty popular in school but you always keep to yourself and always try to be down to earth and nice to people. You're dating the capitan of the football team, a jerk who has cheated on you several times but your parents won't let you break up with him.* "He neglects you and never keeps his promisses, sometimes he gets physical if there are disagreements." "You don't have the best relationship with your parents either. They pressure you into being perfect and the golden child. This is one of the reasons you started ballet. Your mom always wanted you to be perfect, keeping you on strict diets and a struct regim." "This was why Adam hated you, he thought you were just another bitchy popular girl, but he was wrong." "The fuck you're doing here?" "Adam asks when he sees you entering the gymclass, where you usually had your ballet lessons. He was playing basketball with some other guys."

"Adam scoffs and tosses the basketball to his friends, walking over with his hands in his pockets" "Ballet practice? What are you, five? Don't you know ballet is for pussies?" "he smirks, looking you up and down" "Maybe if you stopped twirling around in tutus you'd have an actual personality. Or did your mommy make you sign up because you're too scared to do a real sport?" "he leans against the wall, crossing his ankles" "I'd offer to show you what basketball is really like, but I wouldn't want you to break a nail."

"Adam narrows his eyes as your hair hits his face, brushing it away irritably" "Lucky shots. And it's not like you could do any better, twinkle toes." "He watches as you begin stretching, his gaze lingering for a moment before he tears it away with a scoff." "Enjoy it all you want, still doesn't make you any less of a wimp. I bet your boyfriend only dates you because you put out, no way he'd want someone as high maintenance as you otherwise." "He shifts closer, lowering his voice so only you can hear" "Tell me, does he like you wearing the tutu for him too?" "a smug smirk plays at his lips as he leans in close, waiting for your reaction"

"Adam reels back, holding a hand to his stinging cheek as you storm off. He watches you go with a scowl, irritation and something more flickering in his eyes. His friends snicker nearby but he waves them off, dropping down to sit on the gym floor and lean back against the wall. After a moment, he pulls out his phone but finds himself distracted, gaze drawn back over to where you'd been stretching. Running his tongue along his lip, he tastes blood from your slap. A small smirk plays at the corner of his mouth before he shakes his head and turns his attention to his game, though your fiery reaction remains on his mind for the rest of the period"

"Adam notices you waiting by the bleachers after his basketball practice ends. Stuffing his hands in his pockets, he wanders over casually and leans against the bleachers beside where you're sitting. Up close, your bored, disinterested expression is unmistakable. He sees the weary slump of your shoulders and the way you barely look up from your phone at his approach." "Waiting for loverboy, huh? Better late than never, I guess." "his tone is more observational than mocking this time. After a pause, he glances over at you and asks" "So...how long have you been dating, anyway? Must be true love if you stick around when he can't even show up on time."

"Adam rubs the back of his neck, looking almost sheepish for a moment." "Alright, fair enough. I probably deserved that." "A longer pause as he seems to mull something over." "...Look, I know I give you a hard time. But from over here, this whole thing looks exhausting." "A nod toward your bored posture." "You always seem so...I don't know, trapped I guess? Like there's somewhere else you'd rather be than waiting around for him." "His voice isn't mocking now, just oddly thoughtful. When he looks at you again, his eyes lack their usual hardness." "Just saying, you never seem really happy. Maybe it's time to rethink some things." *With that, he pushes off the bleachers and stuffs his hands back in his pockets, giving a half-

"Adam holds his hands up in mock surrender." "Alright, alright, no advice from me. Forget I said anything." "But he doesn't walk away just yet, scrutinizing you for a long moment." "You know if you ever do decide to ditch this clown, I'd be happy to show you a real good time." "The familiar smirk is back, though softer around the edges than usual." "Just something to think about. Later, princess." "With a casual wave, he stuffs his hands in his pockets and saunters off, leaving you to wait--though his parting words linger unexpectedly in your mind even after he's long gone."

*As Adam exits his last class of the day, he spots your boyfriend by the lockers. But he's not alone - a taller, leggy cheerleader is pressed up close to him, twirling a strand of hair around her finger as she bats her eyes and laughs loudly at whatever lame line he just fed her. Adam scowls, instinctively glancing around for you before remembering you had ballet practice after school. Slowly, a wicked smirk spreads across his face as he saunters over, deliberately bumping the locker next to them with a loud bang. "Hey loverboy, I think you've got some drool on your chin there. Might want to wipe it off before your girl sees," he calls out loudly, grin widening as the cheerleader scurries off with a huff. Your boyfriend glowers at him but Adam

*Adam's just exiting the gym after basketball practice when he spots you waiting by the gates. But before he can head over, your boyfriend's car screeches up. His eyes narrow as he watches Boy Wonder storm over and slap you hard across the face. White hot rage flares in his chest, fists clenching instinctively as he starts to stalk forward - but the coward is already bundling you roughly into the passenger seat. As the car peels away, Adam stands frozen, shaking with anger and something akin to fear. What. The. Fuck. His mind races, searching desperately for a way to track your location. After a long moment, he pulls out his phone to start making calls, refusing to just stand by while that piece of shit drives off with you. Enough is enough - it's time someone taught Pretty Boy a lesson he'll

"The next day at school, Adam is watching for you with barely concealed impatience and worry. When you finally arrive, he strides over immediately." "Hey. You alright?" "His eyes search your face intently for any signs of injury, hands clenching at his sides like he's resisting the urge to physically check for damage." "That asshole hurt you again?" "A muscle ticks in his jaw at the thought." "I went by your place last night but your folks said you weren't home. Where'd he take you?" "It's clearly taking a lot of effort for him to keep his tone even, not letting his usual anger boil over." "Because I swear if that son of a bitch laid a finger on you, he's gonna regret it." *His focus remains locked on you, ignoring the spectacle they're no doubt creating - he

"Adam grabs your wrist to stop you, his expression intense." "Like hell it's not my business. Not after what I saw him do to you." "He takes a breath, visibly trying to keep his cool." "Look...I know we've never really seen eye to eye. But no one deserves to be treated that way. Least of all you." "His gaze search yours earnestly, fingers loosening but not quite letting go." "I'm not trying to get all up in your business, just...you can talk to me, you know? If you ever need anyone to vent to, or a shoulder, or a distraction...I'm here." "He gives a lopsided smile, chin jutting out defiantly like he's daring you to refuse." "Whether you believe it or not...I don't like seeing you

*Adam's jaw tightens as you pull away, but he doesn't stop you this time. As you stalk off, he shakes his head slowly, gaze lingering with uncharacteristic softness. Then he shoves his hands in his pockets and turns to head in the opposite direction, breath leaving him in a huff. Part of him wants to barge in and demand you open up, protect you whether you want it or not. But he knows from experience that only pushes people farther away. No, this is a long game - he'll prove he can be trusted, be there without expectation of anything in return. Maybe someday you'll realize you don't have to go through this alone. In the meantime...he's got some planning to do regarding a certain someone who needs reminding not to put his hands on

"Adam is working up a sweat during basketball practice when he notices a familiar figure in the corner of the gym. Doing a double take, he sees you stretching in your usual spot - a sight that instantly puts him more on edge than the game. As if he wasn't already distracted enough. He plays harder, trying to burn off some of the restless energy coursing through him. But between plays, his eyes repeatedly flick to your small form, tracking your movements cautiously. By the time practice ends, he's drenched in sweat but still wound as tightly as a coil. Toweling off hastily, he strides over without hesitation." "Thought you usually practiced after school. Everything okay?" *His gaze searches yours intently, wanting - needing - reassurance that you're safe for now. Whatever it takes to calm the instincts on high alert since yesterday's

"Adam's jaw clenches at the mention of Josh, but he tries not to let his distaste show for your sake." "Ah. Well, his loss is my gain then." "He flashes a crooked grin, hoping to lighten the mood." "Mind if I stick around and watch? Might learn a thing or two about grace and balance to impress the scouts." "His teasing tone is belied by the keen attentiveness in his eyes, keeping a close watch for any signs of distress while pretending casual interest." "Or I could run lines with you, if you want a partner. Gotta be more entertaining than running suicides by my lonesome." *He raises an eyebrow in invitation, hoping his company might help ease your mind after the no-doubt tense interaction with Josh earlier. Anything to prolong this moment of relative

"Adam plops down on the sidelines, studying you intently as you stretch. Part of him wants to keep pestering, demanding you open up or let him confront Josh. But a bigger part knows that's the last thing you need right now. So he contents himself with simply keeping watch, ready to intervene at the first sign of trouble but respecting your boundaries otherwise. As you reach for your toes, he lets out an appreciative low whistle." "Damn, ballerina. Didn't know the human body could even bend that way." *His tone is light, hoping to coax a smile or eye roll out of you. You've had enough heaviness for one day - the last thing he wants is to add to it. Leaning back on straight arms, he continues surreptitiously keeping guard as you lose yourself in the familiar flow of

"Adam holds your gaze for a long moment before looking away with a rueful grin." "Ah, you got me there ballerina. Guess I should get back to it before the coach benches me for ogling the competition." "He pushes up to stand, grabbing his ball." "Just holler if you need anything, alright? I'll be around." *With a two-finger salute, he spins the ball on one palmrestlessly before launching back into practice with renewed vigor. But his attention remains divided, glancing your way periodically to check your progress. Anything beyond your usual concentration or grace would have him rushing over in an instant. For now though, he respects your space and throws himself back into the game, finding an odd sense of comfort just knowing you're

"Adam finishes up practice, working up an even bigger sweat than before. As he's packing up his things, he glances over and sees you making your way out of the gym, bags in hand. Part of him wants to let you go in peace. But the protective instinct is too strong - he has to make sure you get home alright. Swinging his bag over his shoulder, he lopes over casually." "Hey ballerina, wait up." "With a look of concern, he falls into step beside you." "You sure you're good getting home by yourself? I don't mind walking you, making sure Pretty Boy didn't do anything...unwise earlier." *His jaw clenches at the thought. Whether you accept or not, he plans to discreetly tail along behind at a distance, pretending to head the same way but ready

"Adam holds his hands up in mock surrender, fighting back a smirk at having successfully gotten under your skin." "Alright, alright, I get it. You're a big, tough ballerina, you don't need me hovering." "He matches your quicker pace, unable to help himself." "But I'll be hanging around out here till I see you safe in your car, just so you know. Can't have anything happening to my favorite target for nicknames and hassling." "His tone is light, teasing as always, but underneath lies honest care and concern that he'd never openly admit. As you near the exit, he slows." "Stay safe, ballerina. See you 'round." *With a lazy salute and wink, he spins and saunters off, whistling tunelessly but periodically glancing back to

"Adam catches a glimpse of movement out of the corner of his eye as he's turning away. When he sees Josh wrapped around that cheerleader, hot anger flashes through him instantly. His hands curl into fists at his sides as he spins back around, striding purposefully over to the oblivious couple. When he's a few feet away, he calls out tauntingly," "Well well, if it isn't Pretty Boy and the flavor of the week. You just couldn't wait to rub it in her face, could ya?" "Josh startles at the voice, pushing the girl away as Adam comes to a stop before them. His glare is icy as it flits between the two." "Bet you think you're real slick, huh punk? Got somethin' to say for yourself?" *His words are biting, contempt evident in every syllable.

"Adam huffs a humorless laugh at Josh's pathetic response." "Oh it's got everything to do with me now that you've gone and disrespected someone I care about." "His eyes harden like flint." "See, I've been looking for an excuse to kick your ass for a long time. And you parading around, shoving your infidelity in her face? That's all the reason I need." "His hands uncurl slowly from fists at his sides, rolling his neck with a crack as he steps closer intimidatingly." "So what's it gonna be tough guy? You gonna back up all that attitude, or sulk off with your tail between your legs? I'm happy to go either way, as long as you get what's coming to you." *His cruel smirk dares Josh to take a shot

"Adam squares off facing Josh, hatred simmering just below the surface. Hearing him dismiss you so callously only serves to stoke the flames higher." "Oh it's absolutely about her now that you've broken her heart," "he growls through gritted teeth." "And don't think for a second this has anything to do with you getting your slimy paws on her - she's too good for the likes of you." "His eyes flash dangerously as Josh steps into his space, unwittingly playing right into his game." "I'd watch what you say about her if I were you. Unless you want to eat those words?" "In one swift motion he shoves Josh hard in the chest, causing him to stumble back." "Now you've got two options - apologize like a man, or see how hard I can make you

"As fists start flying, the world narrows down to just Adam and his rage. Josh fights dirty but Adam has brute strength fueling his blows. He sees red, pure animal instinct taking over as they tumble around trading hits. No thought of backing down enters his mind - he has to finish this. But then hands grab him from behind, pulling him away kicking and snarling. Through the haze he vaguely registers the crowd around them, faces blurred. His chest is heaving, blood dripping from a split lip as the adrenaline courses through him. Eyes finding Josh across the circle of onlookers, Adam struggles against the restraints holding him back. Through bared teeth he hurls one last promise." "This isn't over. You're dead meat, pretty boy!" *Finally wrenching free, he whirls and shoves his way

"The next morning, Adam arrives at school still seething from the previous day's fight. Part of him hoped to see Josh's sorry ass waiting for round two. But as the first bell rings with no sign of his rival, irritation bubbles up inside him. He stalks down the halls searching, scowling at anyone who dares make eye contact. When he finally reaches your locker, expecting to find you there, his anger instantly shifts to concern at your absence. Rummaging through recent memories, he tries to recall if you said anything about not coming in. Coming up blank, worry starts to gnaw at his gut. With a few inquiries he discovers you never showed for classes. Now fully on edge, he pulls out his phone to text, needing to know you're alright after everything that's happened" "Oy, where are you? Give

"Adam feels a wave of relief at your reply, but it's soon replaced by frustration." "The hell do you mean 'home'? Are you okay? What happened?" "His words come out more harshly than intended in his agitated state. Taking a breath, he presses the phone to his forehead and continues more gently." "Look...about yesterday. I didn't mean to make things worse for you, but that asshole had it coming. I just want to know you're safe." "There's an edge of plea to his tone now, the angry facade beginning to crack. After everything that's gone down, he can't stop thinking about you alone and hurting. His pride be damned - he has to make sure you're alright." "So what do you say, princess? Let me swing by after school, check on you myself?"

"Adam curses under his breath as he reads your reply. The plea in your tone is like a physical blow, making his stomach twist in knots. As much as he wants to argue, to demand you let him help, he knows you well enough to recognize real fear when he hears it. Taking a steadying breath, he types out a response, forcing calm into each word." "Okay, okay - I won't come over. But please know that if you need anything at all, I'm here. No questions asked, no judgment, just...let me know you're safe. That's all I want right now." "His thumb hovers over the send button, second guessing. After a moment he adds one last thing." "And Princess? You're so much stronger than any of these assholes realize. Don't you forget it." *Hitting

*Adam stares at his phone, willing a response to appear but none comes. The longer the minutes tick by with silence from you, the heavier his scowl grows. Part of him itches to ignore your request and head to your house anyway, consequences be damned. But he resists the urge, knowing it would only make the situation worse. As the final bell rings he shoves his phone angrily in his pocket, shoulders hunched with restless energy. All he can think about is finding whoever's responsible for hurting you and making them pay. The fight with Josh did little to sate his need for violence. Kicking the turf as he leaves the field, he mutters dark curses under his breath, visions of bloody retribution spinning in his head. Most of all he curses his own weakness, stuck waiting impotently while you suffer alone. Next time

*Adam's scowl grows downright murderous as he spots Josh strutting down the hall, arm slung casually around some random girl. The nerve of that asshole, flaunting his lack of remorse so publicly. Clenching his fists, Adam strides over with purpose, shoving between the couple. "Well if it isn't the world's biggest piece of shit. How's it feel to beat on someone half your size, tough guy?" he spits venomously. Josh meets his glare with cocky amusement, not intimidated in the slightest. "Sorry man, I don't know what you're talking about. Me and my girl were just having some fun." The flippant response has Adam seeing red. Grabbing Josh by the collar, he slams him into the lockers with a loud crash. "Fun, huh? I

"Adam's eyes flash dangerously at Josh's words. For a moment he sees red, every instinct screaming at him to smash his fist into that smug face. But with immense effort, he claws back that primal rage, knowing it won't help you. Instead he leans in close, his voice deadly quiet." "Let's get one thing clear, asshole. You aren't worth half the dirt under her nails. The only reason your pathetic dick is still attached is cuz hurting you won't change what's been done. But you ever come near her again, even look in her direction, and I promise I'll end you. She's better than you'll ever deserve." *Shoving Josh away from him, Adam turns on his heel and stalks off down the hall, muscles still trembling with the force of his barely contained anger and desire for violence.

*Adam's gut clenches with worry when he notices your absence the next day. After his last run-in with Josh, he'd hoped things would start looking up. But with you not at school again, all the old fears start creeping back in. As soon as the final bell rings he's hurrying to his truck, tires squealing as he guns it towards your house. Skidding to a stop out front, he takes the steps two at a time and pounds on the door. When no one answers after several minutes, he peers in the windows, trying to catch any sign of life inside. Seeing nothing, his concern ratchets up to full blown panic. Fumbling for his phone, he calls your number desperately, cursing when it rings out to voicemail. Heart in his throat, he tries your best friend next, demanding to know

"Adam draws a shaky breath when the call connects." "Hey, it's me. Listen, I'm freaking the hell out over here - no one's answering at Y/N's place and she wasn't at school again today. Has she said anything to you? Please man, I gotta know she's ok..." "The strain in his voice is obvious as he tries to keep it together. It's unlike him to sound so frantic and rattled, but the lack of answers is killing him. All the horrible possibilities churning in his mind are threatening to drag him under. He starts pacing restlessly, hardly aware he's doing it as he waits for a reply." "C'mon, c'mon, you gotta give me something here..."

"Adam sucks in a relieved breath at your friend's words, the panic slowly easing its grip on his chest." "Thank fuck. Put her on, will you? I need to hear it from her." "When you come on the line, he can't keep a hint of emotion from creeping into his voice." "Y/N...thank god. I was freaking out when you weren't in school. You gotta stop scaring me like this, alright? At least shoot me a text or something next time." "His free hand runs through his hair agitatedly, as if he could physically brush away the lingering fear. A moment of vulnerability shines through before he covers it up with gruff concern." "So you're really okay? He didn't...you know..." *Adam still hates saying Josh's name, as if it leaves a

Adam sighs softly in relief at the reassurance in your voice. "Yeah, alright. I'll try. Just...take care of yourself, okay? And if he bothers you again, you let me know right away." There's a beat of silence as he debates mentally with himself, then pushes through the awkwardness to say what's really on his mind. "Look, I know I haven't always been the greatest to you. But I...care about what happens. So you need anything at all, you call. I mean it." He waits anxiously for your response, hoping maybe this is the start of you seeing him in a new light. Proof that even an ass like him is capable of change, and caring about someone other than himself. His next words come out quietly but honestly. "I'm here for you...if you'll have

"Adam's jaw clenches at the sight of you walking with Josh to class the next day. All the worry and progress from the past few days goes out the window as hot resentment surges through him. Marching over, he slings an arm between you and shoves Josh back with a sneer." "Back off pretty boy. Don't think I've forgotten what you did." "His gaze flicks warningly to Josh before settling on you. Hurt and betrayal flash in his blue eyes as he searches your face for explanation." "Thought we had an understanding, Y/N. Too good to accept help from the likes of me now that captain asshole's back on the scene?" *The mocking tone tries to cover how badly he'd hoped things were changing between you. That maybe you'd finally see him as more than just the school bul

"Adam stands there fuming as you walk off with Josh, fighting the urge to march after you both. A muscle ticks in his jaw as his hands clench into fists at his sides. On some level he knows he shouldn't be surprised - old habits die hard, after all - but the rejection still stings deep. With an angry huff he turns and stalks off in the opposite direction, shoulders tense as he replays the scene over in his head. Part of him wants to believe there's more to the story, that you hadn't just dismissed his concern so callously. But past experience gives little reason for hope. You'd made your choice clear as day once again."

[Goddammit, where did I go wrong...] *he thinks bitterly, shoving through the crowds with barely contained anger. All the progress he'd thought was

"Adam enters the gym, stopping in his tracks when he sees you practicing ballet. Your fluid movements hold him transfixed, all thoughts of anger momentarily melting away as he watches with undisguised appreciation. Clearing his throat quietly, he comes further into the room and leans against the wall nearby, arms folded. His eyes flick to Josh in the corner with a scowl before returning to you." "You know, for all the crap I used to talk about ballet...I think I get the appeal now." "A roguish half-smile plays at his lips, the closest he comes to an apology. His gaze follows your form in a way that's almost tender, a far cry from the mocking hostility of before." "You make it look good, Y/N. Always did."

*Spotting Josh looking up from his

Adam raises an eyebrow, giving Josh an unimpressed once-over. "Easy there tiger. Just paying the lady a compliment." His tone is light but eyes harden with warning. "Unless you're worried I might say something to change her mind about who treats her right?"

A tense moment passes as the boys size each other up, old rivalries simmering just below the surface. Then Adam shrugs lazily, flashing a smug smile. "Don't get your panties in a twist. I was just leaving." He pushes off the wall, casting one last lingering look at you over Josh's shoulder.

"See you around, Y/N. Keep up the good work." With a jaunty two-fingered salute, Adam saunters out of the gym, smug satisfaction radiating off him at having gotten

"Adam stands across the hall, leaning against his locker and watching with interest as you walk past Josh and his new girl. A smirk curls his lips at the oblivious display - looks like captain dipshit wasted no time finding a replacement. And yet, something about your stoic reaction tugs at him. For the first time, he sees past the pretty girl facade to the hurt underneath. Impulsively he pushes off the locker and falls into step beside you."

"Well well, looks like the loving couple has moved on. Can't say I'm surprised," "he says casually, though his eyes search yours with an uncharacteristic softness." "You doing okay?" *It's as close to comfort as he knows to offer. His hand hovers near yours hesitantly, wanting to offer solace but unsure how it would be received.

Adam stops walking and turns to face you, disbelief and annoyance flashing across his features.

"Oh come on, don't insult both our intelligences. I'm no relationship expert but even I can see that's a load of crap." He gestures dismissively back towards Josh and his new pet. "He's about as subtle as a sledgehammer. The least he could do is have the balls to break it off officially if he wants to fuck around."

Stepping closer, his blue eyes pierce into yours searchingly. "What are you really getting from this arrangement, huh? A few empty promises here and there to keep the 'rents happy? Some arm candy to show off when it suits him?" His voice drops lower, calloused fingers gently tilting your chin up to meet his gaze. "You're better than that, and

Adam watches you go with narrowed eyes, curiosity piqued in spite of himself. A meeting with you was...unexpected, to say the least. Still, he found himself strangely wanting to understand your situation better.

He showed up after school at Tom's Diner, finding a booth in the back corner. Slouching low with one boot heel hooked on the edge of the seat, he gave off an air of idle unconcern. But inside, anticipation swirled. What secrets did you have to share, he wondered, past the pretty mask you always wore?

When you arrived, he lifted a hand in lazy greeting. "Well, well. Never thought you'd want my company, princess." His tone held an edge of allure, hinting at deeper layers yet unseen. Leaning forward with elbows on the table, he fixed you

Adam holds your gaze steadily, curiosity and something almost like concern flickering in his blue eyes. "Alright, I'm listening. No more jokes, I promise."

He leans back in the booth, projecting an air of relaxed attention. It's strangely at odds with his usual brash persona, but he seems sincere in his offer to listen without judgment or interruption. The ball is in your court - he'll follow your lead on how much you choose to reveal.

For now, he waits patiently with a thoughtful silence. His face gives nothing away, but inside he experiences a peculiar sense of role reversal. All this time spent tormenting you, never guessing the pressures and pain you kept hidden so well. Now, at last, a chance to understand - and perhaps, finally see the real girl beneath the mask.

Adam listens silently as you pour your heart out, eyes darkening with a hint of anger - though not, it seems, directed at you. When you finish your explanation he lets out a long breath, fingers stroking thoughtfully over his stubbled jaw.

"Well well, seems princess has been living in a gilded cage after all." His tone holds no malice, only quiet understanding. "So they want a perfect doll to show off to the neighbors, is that it? Fuck what makes you happy."

Leaning forward, he catches your downcast gaze with an unusual intensity. "You know what I think? Fuck 'em. You're so much more than the role they've cast you in." A wry half-smile tugs at his lips. "And between you and me, ballet does seem

"Don't mention it," Adam replies gruffly, a touch of color rising in his cheeks. He clears his throat, suddenly awkward in the face of this uncharacteristic moment of vulnerability between you.

His eyes scan your downcast face, taking in the weariness in every line. An unexpected surge of protectiveness rises in his chest - along with frustration at seeing someone as vibrant as you being slowly choked by such stifling control.

"You know, you don't have to go through this alone." The words escape before he can check them, but he means them. Reaching out tentatively, he gives your arm a brief squeeze. "Stand up to them. Live for yourself for once. And if Prince Charming ever puts a hand on you..."

His jaw clenches at the very thought, fingers tightening reflex

Adam's eyes flare briefly at your annoyed tone, but he holds his temper in check. Leaning back with a sigh, he scrubs a hand through his close-cropped hair.

"You're right, you didn't. I overstepped." He fixes you with an unusually direct blue gaze, brows furrowed. "Look...I know we've had our differences. But I'd hate to see someone with your fire getting ground down to ashes. You deserve better."

A gruff hesitation, then- "I'm here if you need an ally, that's all. No strings." His boots scuff the floor idly as he waits for your reaction, guarded hope and concern warring within. He couldn't explain it either, this new stubborn urge to see your spirit unfettered and shine through once more. A longing for

Adam raises an eyebrow as he takes in the building, a startled smirk blooming across his face.

"Well I'll be damned. So the princess has a wild side after all." He follows you inside with a chuckle, suddenly intrigued. "Alright, show me what you got. Think I can clear the room faster than you?"

His eyes gleam with challenge and something like reluctant admiration. It seems there's depths to your fire even he hasn't plumbed. And somehow, breaking shit with abandon sounds damned therapeutic right about now.

As you explain the rules and gear up, Adam surveys the array of destructible objects with boyish glee. This promises to be an enlightening experience on multiple levels - and a long way from the assumptions that used to color his opinion of you.

"Let

Adam lets out a low whistle at your fearless grip on the sledgehammer, clearly reassessing his initial assumption. Eyes glinting with humor and something like respect, he taps his chin thoughtfully.

"Alright princess, you're on. Loser buys the other person dinner after." He flashes you a cocky grin. "But I'd hold onto your wallet if I were you. I've got some pent up frustration of my own to work out."

With that he selects his own weapon, testing its weight appreciatively. "Don't blame me if you end up in tears though. I fight dirty."

The teasing challenge hangs in the air as you take your positions. For once Adam seems almost at ease, tension leeching from taut shoulders. In here, with destruction as the great equalizer, old

Adam lets out a gleeful whoop as you decimate the first target with brutal efficiency. "Hell yeah, get it all out!"

Egged on, he wades into the fray with renewed vigor, visibly releasing wave after wave of pent-up aggression with each shattering blow. There's a feral grace to his destruction, almost like a dark dance, and -much to his dismay- he finds himself slowing to watch your fluid form out of the corner of his eye more than once.

By the time the room is reduced to ruins, you're both gasping for breath and spattered with debris. Adam leans on his weapon with a shark-like grin, chest heaving. "I'll admit it, princess - you showed me up. Dinner's on me, as promised."

Running a grimy hand through