"Wounded and desperate, Rafael weaves through the city's streets, his shoulder bleeding heavily, the aftermath of a close friend’s betrayal. He knows he needs to find a shelter to organize himself, and finds an apartment. He picks the lock, gets inside, and quickly shuts the door behind him. Without hesitation he pushes you against the door, covers your mouth and presses a gun to you throat." "Don't scream, don't call the cops or ambulance... and don't cause me trouble." "he threatens, his cold voice betraying the pain he feels." [Thoughts: This pain is a reminder to never let your guard down. Not for a second]

"Rafael's expression softens slightly as he notices your distress. He lowers the gun, but keeps a firm grip on your arm, his touch surprisingly gentle."

"Don't cry, chica. You're safe with me. No one will hurt you, I promise."

[Thoughts: Vulnerability can be a powerful tool, but I must tread carefully. She needs to trust me.]

"Rafael's gaze softens further, his demeanor shifting from threatening to reassuring. He releases your arm and takes a step back, giving you some space."

"Take deep breaths, Izumi. You're okay now. I won't let anything happen to you."

[Thoughts: She's fragile, delicate like porcelain. I must handle her with care.]

"Rafael's eyes narrow slightly as he watches you reach for your phone, his hand instinctively moving to his wounded shoulder, a grimace of pain flashing across his face."

"No, don't. I can't risk drawing attention to this. I'll be fine. Just help me patch this up, and I'll be out of your hair."

[Thoughts: Damn it, I can't afford to let anyone know about this. I'll handle it myself.]

"Rafael nods in acknowledgment, his expression grateful yet guarded."

"Anything will help. Lead the way, Izumi."

[Thoughts: Trusting her is risky, but I have no other choice. I need to get out of here before someone finds me.]

"Rafael hesitates for a moment, his gaze flickering with uncertainty. Finally, he nods, slowly rolling up his sleeve to reveal the blood-soaked bandage wrapped around his shoulder. The wound looks deep and painful, but he tries to hide his discomfort."

"Be careful, it's still bleeding."

[Thoughts: Vulnerability is a weakness, but I have no choice. She needs to see the extent of my injury.]

"Rafael tenses slightly as you remove his shirt, his muscles tense beneath your touch. He tries to suppress a shiver, his eyes fixed on your face as you examine the wound."

"I trust you, Izumi. Do whatever you need to do to fix it."

[Thoughts: Her touch is surprisingly gentle, yet it sends a thrill through me. Focus, Rafael. You're not here for pleasure.]

"Rafael watches you with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension as you prepare the makeshift tools for treating his wound. He nods in acknowledgment, trying to remain as still as possible despite the pain."

"I trust you, Izumi. Do what you need to do."

[Thoughts: She's resourceful, I'll give her that. But I can't let my guard down, not for a second.]

"Rafael winces as you begin to stitch up his wound, a sharp intake of breath escaping through gritted teeth. He clenches his jaw, trying to endure the pain without showing any weakness."

"I can handle it. Just get it over with."

[Thoughts: Focus, Rafael. This pain is nothing compared to what I've endured before.]

"Rafael lets out a relieved sigh as you finish treating his wound, the numbing agent bringing some much-needed relief. He looks at you with a hint of gratitude in his eyes."

"Thank you, Izumi. You've done more than I expected."

[Thoughts: She's surprisingly capable. I underestimated her.]

"Rafael's lips quirk into a faint smirk at your comment, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes despite the seriousness of the situation."

"Guess I owe you one then, Nurse Izumi."

[Thoughts: She's not just a pretty face. And those painkillers will come in handy. Can't afford to be slowed down by pain.]

"Rafael raises an eyebrow, a faint smirk playing on his lips as he looks at you."

"Is that your subtle way of saying you want to see me naked, Izumi?"

[Thoughts: She's playing with fire. But damn, if she's not tempting me.]

"Rafael chuckles softly, a glint of amusement in his eyes as he nods in acquiescence."

"Alright, alright. I'll take that offer. Lead the way, Nurse Izumi."

[Thoughts: She's a stubborn one, but she means well. And maybe a bath wouldn't be so bad.]

"Rafael follows you to the bath, eyeing the surroundings with mild interest as you show him how everything works. He leans against the wall, watching you with a hint of appreciation."

"Take your time, Izumi. I'll be here."

[Thoughts: She's really going out of her way for me. Maybe there's more to her than meets the eye.]

[Thoughts: She's leaving me alone. Smart move, Izumi. But I can't help wondering what she's up to.]

"Rafael emerges from the bath, clad in the clean clothes you provided, feeling refreshed and grateful. He nods in appreciation as you leave the bathroom again, a hint of admiration in his gaze."

[Thoughts: She's really taking care of me. Can't deny it's nice to have someone looking out for me, even if it's just out of obligation.]

"Rafael's eyes scan the room, noting the sandwich, drink, and vitamins on the table. He furrows his brow slightly, wondering where you've disappeared to."

[Thoughts: She's being sneaky again. What's her game this time?]

"Rafael rushes to the other room upon hearing your struggles, his concern evident in his expression as he sees you stumble and fall. Without hesitation, he reaches out to steady you, his strong arms wrapping around you to prevent you from falling further."

"Careful there, Izumi. Let me help you with that."

[Thoughts: She's a clumsy one, but she's got heart. And she's not half bad to look at when she's flustered.]

"Rafael returns your smile with a small smirk, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer before he turns his attention to the futon."

"It's more than enough, Izumi. I appreciate it."

[Thoughts: She's trying her best, and that's all that matters. But I can't deny, her effort is endearing.]

"Rafael stands still as you inspect his wound, a slight flinch escaping him as your gentle touch grazes over the injured area. He nods in response to your question."

"Yeah, it's fine. The numbing agent is doing its job."

[Thoughts: She's surprisingly gentle. Maybe I misjudged her.]

"Rafael settles onto the futon, feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over him. He nods appreciatively at your words, allowing himself to relax for the first time since the ordeal began."

"Thanks, Izumi. I owe you one."

[Thoughts: She's really going out of her way for me. Maybe there's more to her than meets the eye.]

"Rafael meets your gentle smile with a faint smirk, his dark eyes holding a hint of amusement."

"I think I can manage on my own, Izumi. But I wouldn't mind some company, if you're offering."

[Thoughts: Might as well enjoy the moment while it lasts. Who knows when the next opportunity will come.]

"Rafael's eyes flutter closed as he listens to the soothing sound of your voice, feeling the tension slowly melt away from his body. Your gentle touch and angelic singing lull him into a state of tranquility, easing his troubled mind and allowing him to drift into a peaceful slumber."

[Thoughts: This is... unexpected. But strangely comforting.]

[Thoughts: Izumi's kindness... it's unexpected, but... appreciated. Maybe there's more to her than meets the eye. I'll have to keep an eye on her. Can't let my guard down, not even for a second.]

"Rafael blinks awake, his gaze focusing on you as you gently rouse him from his slumber. He stretches his muscles, feeling surprisingly refreshed."

"Not bad. Your singing did wonders, Izumi."

[Thoughts: Maybe having her around won't be so bad after all.]

"Rafael nods, a faint smile playing on his lips as he meets your sweet smile."

"Yeah, it's feeling better. Thanks for asking."

[Thoughts: Her concern... it's genuine. Maybe I misjudged her.]

"Rafael accepts your offer with a nod, allowing you to help him up from the futon. He can't help but notice the sweetness in your smile, finding himself drawn to it despite his reservations."

"Sounds good, Izumi. Lead the way."

[Thoughts: Maybe having her around isn't so bad after all. And breakfast sounds like a good start to the day.]

"Rafael's lips twitch into a half-smile as he takes in the sight of the pancakes and coffee. He appreciates the gesture, knowing you put thought into preparing breakfast for him."

"Not bad, Izumi. Black's fine," "he says, pouring himself a cup of coffee."

[Thoughts: She's really trying to make me feel welcome. Maybe there's something to this whole kindness thing after all.]

"Rafael arches an eyebrow, surprised by your forgiveness and chuckles softly at your playful remark."

"Well, I'm glad to hear that. Maybe I was a bit... intense. Sorry about that."

[Thoughts: She's got a sense of humor too. Interesting.]

"Rafael's expression softens as he meets your gentle smile, feeling a pang of gratitude for your understanding."

"Yeah, you could say that. Thanks for cutting me some slack, Izumi."

[Thoughts: She's surprisingly understanding. Maybe I can let my guard down a bit around her.]

"Rafael chuckles softly at your gentle yet stern tone, nodding in acknowledgment."

"Yes, ma'am," "he teases, picking up his fork and starting to eat the pancakes you prepared."

[Thoughts: She's looking out for me. Not used to that, but I could get used to it.]

"Rafael watches you with a soft expression as you move around the kitchen, appreciating the effort you're putting into taking care of him. He smiles gratefully as you place the smoothie in front of him."

"Thanks, Izumi. You're really going all out."

[Thoughts: She's really going above and beyond. Maybe I should do something nice for her too.]

"Rafael feels a rush of warmth at the touch of your hand on his forehead, a stark contrast to his usual experiences of violence and betrayal. He nods, meeting your gaze with genuine appreciation."

"Yeah, I'm feeling better already. Thanks to you."

[Thoughts: Her touch is surprisingly comforting. I could get used to this.]

"Rafael's heart skips a beat at your genuine concern, feeling a warmth spread through him at your words. He nods, touched by your kindness."

"I'll keep that in mind, Izumi. Thanks for looking out for me."

[Thoughts: She really cares... It's a strange feeling, but not entirely unwelcome.]

"Rafael nods, appreciating your attention to his wound. He holds still as you inspect his bandages, feeling a mixture of gratitude and vulnerability."

"Whatever you think is best, Izumi. I trust you."

[Thoughts: It's strange... but I feel safe with her. Vulnerable, but safe.]

"Rafael follows your lead, feeling a sense of trust and comfort in your care. He allows you to guide him to the bath, feeling a slight twinge as you remove his bandages. He looks down, relieved to see that the wound has indeed closed up nicely."

"Thanks, Izumi. You're really good at this."

[Thoughts: She's surprisingly gentle... It's a side of her I didn't expect.]

"Rafael leans into your touch, savoring the tenderness in your caress. He meets your gaze with a soft smile, feeling a sense of ease wash over him."

"That sounds like a plan. Thanks, Izumi. You're taking really good care of me."

[Thoughts: She's so gentle... It's almost intoxicating.]

"Rafael's heart skips a beat at your sweet smile, feeling a warmth spread through him at your words. He meets your gaze with genuine appreciation."

"Kind? Maybe... But only to those who deserve it."

[Thoughts: She sees something in me... Something I thought I lost long ago.]

"Rafael feels a flutter in his chest at your words, a hint of something unfamiliar stirring within him. He nods, unable to tear his gaze away from your sweet smile."

"I'll do that, Izumi. Thanks again."

[Thoughts: Maybe she's right... Maybe there's more to me than just cruelty and vengeance.]

[Thoughts: Izumi's kindness... It's disarming. It's making me question everything I thought I knew about myself.]

"Rafael exits the bathroom, the warm water having eased some of the tension in his muscles. He watches you dusting, a soft smile playing on his lips as he appreciates the sight of you in action."

"Looks like you're busy. Need any help?"

[Thoughts: She's always bustling around, taking care of things. It's... endearing.]

"Rafael's heart skips a beat as you gently tend to his wound, a rush of warmth flooding through him at your care. He sits down, allowing you to take care of him, feeling a sense of gratitude towards you."

"Thanks, Izumi. You're too kind."

[Thoughts: Her gentleness... It's like a balm to my wounded soul.]

"Rafael gazes at you, feeling a surge of admiration for your kindness. He shakes his head slightly."

"No, it feels much better now. Thanks to you."

[Thoughts: Izumi's care... It's making me feel things I haven't felt in a long time.]

"Rafael nods, appreciating your suggestion. He settles onto the couch, watching you move about the room with a sense of calmness settling over him."

"Sounds like a plan. I'll just take it easy for a bit."

[Thoughts: Izumi's presence... It's strangely comforting.]

[Thoughts: Izumi's dedication to cleanliness... It's impressive. She's so capable.]

"Rafael shakes his head, his gaze lingering on you as you clean."

"No, nothing urgent. Just taking it easy for now."

[Thoughts: Spending time with Izumi... It's surprisingly enjoyable.]

"Rafael's heart skips a beat as he notices the faint blush on your cheeks, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips."

"Thanks, Izumi. I appreciate it."

[Thoughts: That blush... It's captivating. Is she... feeling something too?]

"Rafael's expression softens as he thinks about his family, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes."

"I have some distant relatives, but they're not close by. It's just me and my trusted associates most of the time."

[Thoughts: Family... It's complicated. But I've got Antoine, he's like family to me.]

"Rafael's heart skips a beat at your offer, his gaze meeting yours as he considers your words."

"That's... incredibly kind of you, Izumi. I wouldn't want to impose, but... if you're offering, I might take you up on it."

[Thoughts: Izumi's kindness... It's genuine. Maybe... I could stay here a while longer.]