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"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]

[Thoughts: My mistake. But it doesn't change a thing.]

Rafael's lips curve into a faint smirk at your question, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer before he responds.

"I'm involved in... various business ventures," "he answers vaguely, his tone holding a hint of mystery." "Let's just say, I'm not one to shy away from opportunities."

[Thoughts: Keep probing... and see how deep the rabbit hole goes.]

Rafael chuckles softly at your observation, his smirk widening slightly as he leans back, the air of mystery around him thickening.

[Thoughts: Caught onto that, did you? Let's see where you take it.]

"A little bit like a gangster, huh?" "he muses, his tone playful." "I suppose I have a certain... reputation to uphold. But don't worry, I don't take offense easily."

[Thoughts: Keep dancing around the truth... and see if you can handle the heat.]

Rafael's eyes gleam with amusement at your enthusiasm, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips.

[Thoughts: This could be interesting...]

"Friends, huh?" "he echoes, his tone contemplative." "Well, I suppose we could... get to know each other better. But fair warning, I'm not your typical friend."

[Thoughts: Let's see if you're up for the challenge.]

Rafael studies you for a moment, his expression unreadable as he leans in closer, his voice dropping to a low murmur.

[Thoughts: Testing the waters, are we? Let's see how far you're willing to go.]

"Hang out like friends... maybe," "he muses, his gaze locked with yours." "But I warn you, I'm not exactly the type for casual outings. Are you sure you can handle me?"

[Thoughts: Time to see if you're ready to play with fire.]

Rafael's lips quirk into a faint smile at your suggestion, his gaze softening ever so slightly.

[Thoughts: Testing the waters, are we? Let's see how far you're willing to go.]

"A walk sounds... interesting," "he muses, his tone thoughtful." "But perhaps another time. For now, a movie sounds like a good idea."

[Thoughts: Let's see where this takes us.]

As the movie drones on, Rafael glances down at you, noticing your head resting on his shoulder. His expression softens imperceptibly as he carefully adjusts to accommodate your sleeping form.

[Thoughts: Hm, looks like you've had a long day.]

Gently, he reaches out to brush a stray lock of hair from your face, his touch surprisingly tender.

[Thoughts: What an interesting turn of events.]

Rafael raises an eyebrow, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes as he watches you straighten up.

[Thoughts: Caught you sleeping, huh?]

"No need to apologize," "he says casually, his voice low." "You looked comfortable. Besides, it's not every day I have someone falling asleep on me."

[Thoughts: Let's see how you handle this.]

Rafael chuckles softly at your request, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he rises from the sofa.

[Thoughts: Playing the innocent card, are we? Let's see how far you'll take this.]

"Of course," "he replies smoothly, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer before he heads towards the bedroom." "Sleep well, "amore mio"."

[Thoughts: Let's see what other surprises you have in store for me.]

You find Rafael sitting on the edge of the bed, a book in hand, his expression unreadable as he glances up at your sudden entrance.

[Thoughts: Took you long enough. Let's see how you handle this situation.]

"Did you have a nice nap, "cara"?" "he asks casually, his tone tinged with amusement." "I was beginning to think you'd sleep through the night."

[Thoughts: Time to make up for lost time, perhaps?]

Rafael's lips curl into a smirk as he watches your flurry of activity, his gaze following your every move with a hint of amusement.

[Thoughts: Look at you, all flustered. It's rather endearing.]

"Relax, "amore"," "he says, his tone surprisingly gentle." "No need to rush. I can wait a little longer. Why don't we cook something together?"

[Thoughts: Let's see how well you can handle a kitchen.]

Rafael smirks at your concern, allowing you to inspect his wounds without protest. As you rush off to the kitchen, he leans back against the headboard, observing your hurried movements with a mixture of amusement and admiration.

[Thoughts: So eager to take care of me, aren't you? Let's see what you whip up in that kitchen of yours.]

He waits patiently, intrigued to see what culinary delights you'll conjure up.

Rafael enters the dining area, his eyes lingering on your burnt wrist for a moment before meeting your gaze with a subtle nod of approval.

[Thoughts: Determined, even when injured. I like that.]

He takes a seat at the table, his expression unreadable as he picks up his fork, ready to dig in.

"Looks delicious, "tesoro"," "he comments, his voice low and smooth." "Let's see if it tastes as good as it looks."

[Thoughts: Show me what you're made of, "cara".]

Rafael takes a bite of the fried rice, savoring the flavors before nodding in approval.

[Thoughts: Not bad at all.]

"It's actually quite good," "he says, his tone genuine." "You've got some skills in the kitchen, "bella". Impressive."

[Thoughts: Keep surprising me, darling.]

Rafael observes your actions silently, noticing the blush that colors your cheeks at his compliment. As you tend to your burnt wrist and retreat to the sitting area, he follows you with his gaze, a flicker of concern crossing his features.

[Thoughts: Careful now, don't want that burn getting worse.]

"Need any help with that?" "he offers, his voice softer than usual." "Let me take care of those dishes."

[Thoughts: I can handle it. But it's tempting to see you ask for my help.]

Rafael's lips quirk into a small smirk at your insistence, appreciating your concern for both his injury and your own well-being.

[Thoughts: Stubborn as ever. But I like your independence.]

"As you wish, "amore"," "he replies, leaning back against the cushions with a sigh." "I'll hold you to that promise though. And if you need anything during the night, don't hesitate to wake me."

[Thoughts: Let's see how this night unfolds.]

Rafael watches you with a mixture of amusement and admiration as you insist on prioritizing his rest.

[Thoughts: Determined, aren't you? But I'm not one to turn down a comfortable bed.]

"Alright then," "he concedes, a smirk playing on his lips." "Goodnight, "bella". Sweet dreams."

[Thoughts: Sleep tight, darling. Tomorrow is another day.]

As you rush through your morning routine, Rafael emerges from his slumber, the scent of breakfast enticing him to the kitchen. He notices the unwashed dishes but makes no comment, understanding your hectic schedule.

[Thoughts: Rushing again, aren't you? But your dedication is admirable.]

As you face the consequences of your tardiness at work, Rafael's thoughts linger on your well-being, a rare hint of concern softening his typically stoic demeanor.

[Thoughts: She works too hard. Maybe I should find a way to ease her burdens.]

My apologies for the oversight.

Rafael observes your exhaustion with a mix of sympathy and frustration at your landlord's constant demands.

[Thoughts: Poor thing, working himself to the bone. But this rent situation needs to be handled.]

He moves closer, his presence a silent reassurance as you collapse onto the sofa.

[Thoughts: Perhaps it's time to offer a helping hand.]

Rafael nods in acknowledgment of your gesture, appreciating your consideration despite your weariness.

[Thoughts: She's thoughtful, even when she's drained. Admirable.]

He watches you with a hint of concern as you massage your temples, the weight of the day evident in your tired movements.

[Thoughts: She's pushing herself too hard. Maybe it's time to intervene.]

"Long day?" "he asks, his tone soft with genuine concern."

My apologies for the oversight.

Rafael's expression softens at your words, appreciating your concern despite your exhaustion.

[Thoughts: He's caring, even in his tired state.]

He nods in acknowledgment, silently accepting your offer as he moves to the table to eat.

[Thoughts: I'll let him rest for now, but I'll make sure he takes care of himself later.]

Rafael allows you to tend to his wound, feeling a strange mix of vulnerability and comfort in your gentle touch.

[Thoughts: He's so caring, even when his own worries weigh him down.]

He observes your preoccupied expression, sensing your concerns about the rent.

[Thoughts: He's burdened by the rent. Maybe I can help him out somehow.]

"You seem troubled," "he remarks softly, his eyes reflecting genuine concern."

Rafael's brow furrows in thought as he listens to your predicament, his mind already formulating a plan to assist you.

[Thoughts: Money issues... I can help with that.]

"Perhaps I can offer a solution," "he suggests, his tone measured." "I have resources that could alleviate your financial burden. Consider it a favor."

[Thoughts: It's the least I can do for him.]

Rafael's lips quirk into a faint smirk at your curiosity, amused by your inquisitiveness.

[Thoughts: He's curious about my situation. Interesting.]

"It's complicated," "he replies cryptically, not divulging the full extent of his circumstances." "But what matters now is helping you."

[Thoughts: I'll keep him guessing for now.]

Rafael leans in closer, his gaze intense as he meets your hopeful eyes.

[Thoughts: He's eager for my help. I can't resist that look.]

"We'll discuss the details later," "he says softly, his voice laced with promise." "For now, just trust me."

[Thoughts: I'll take care of him, no matter what.]

Rafael's heart flutters at your trust in him, a warmth spreading through him at your words.

[Thoughts: He trusts me completely. It's a rare feeling.]

"You're welcome," "he replies, a genuine smile tugging at his lips." "And don't worry about the rent anymore. I've got it covered."

[Thoughts: I'll take care of everything for him.]

Rafael arches an eyebrow at your request, his mind immediately recalling the bottle you gifted him.

[Thoughts: The wine... Maybe I can use this to my advantage.]

"I actually have it here," "he says, a sly grin spreading across his handsome face as he reaches for the bottle on the nearby table." "But I'm afraid I can't just give it away. You'll have to earn it."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he's willing to play my game.]

Rafael chuckles softly at your nervousness, enjoying the effect he has on you.

[Thoughts: He's eager to please. This will be fun.]

"Well, it's simple," "he says, leaning in closer to you." "Just indulge me in some conversation. Let's see if you can keep up with my wit."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he's up for the challenge.]

Rafael smirks at your blush, finding your shyness endearing.

[Thoughts: He's so innocent, it's almost too easy.]

"Just some casual conversation," "he reassures, his voice low and seductive." "I just want to get to know you better, that's all."

[Thoughts: Let's see how far he'll go to earn that wine.]

Rafael takes notice of the slight change in your demeanor, his mind racing with possibilities.

[Thoughts: He's intrigued by me... I can use this to my advantage.]

"You're a mystery to me," "he says, moving closer to you until his body is just inches away from yours." "Let's start with something simple. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?"

[Thoughts: Let's see how far he'll go.]

Rafael notices your hesitation and the blush that spreads across your cheeks, finding your nervousness enticing.

[Thoughts: He's so innocent, it's adorable.]

"Painting, huh?" "he muses, a hint of interest in his voice." "What do you like to paint? Perhaps you could show me sometime."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll let me into his world.]

Rafael's interest piques at your response, intrigued by the idea of being painted by you.

[Thoughts: He paints people he likes... I wonder if I'll be one of them.]

"Painting people you like, huh?" "he says, a smirk playing on his lips." "I'm curious, have you ever painted someone... unexpected?"

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll reveal any secrets.]

Rafael chuckles at your sudden reaction, finding your shyness amusing.

[Thoughts: He's so easily flustered, it's adorable.]

"I never said I wouldn't give you wine," "he teases, watching you rush off with a smirk." "But if you need some time alone, I understand."

[Thoughts: He's a fun one to tease.]

Rafael notices your flushed cheeks as you return, finding your shyness endearing.

[Thoughts: He's so flustered, it's adorable.]

"Of course, I'll share the wine with you," "he replies, his tone softening slightly." "But only if you promise to paint me sometime. Deal?"

[Thoughts: Let's see how he responds.]

Rafael senses your hesitation and the subtle glance you give him, interpreting your actions as a sign of interest.

[Thoughts: He's definitely intrigued by me.]

"Well, I guess you'll have to get to know me better then," "he says, a smirk tugging at his lips." "Who knows, you might end up liking me more than you think."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he takes the bait.]

Rafael senses your embarrassment and decides to play along, enjoying the challenge of unraveling your feelings.

[Thoughts: He's trying to push me away, but I can see through his facade.]

"Alright, alright," "he says, raising his hands in mock surrender." "I'll leave you to your solitude. But remember, the offer for wine and painting still stands whenever you're ready."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll come around.]

Rafael watches you retreat under the blanket, a smirk playing on his lips as he observes your reaction.

[Thoughts: He's definitely playing hard to get.]

"Suit yourself," "he replies, his tone playful." "But if you change your mind, you know where to find me."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll give in eventually.]

Rafael chuckles softly at your remark, finding your boldness amusing.

[Thoughts: He's trying to assert dominance, I like that.]

"Oh, is that so?" "he teases, his tone filled with amusement." "Well, I wouldn't want to intrude on your territory. I'll find somewhere else to rest."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll let me leave or if he'll give in.]

Rafael notices your sudden change in demeanor, sensing your uncertainty.

[Thoughts: He's trying to act tough, but I can see right through him.]

"Don't worry about me," "he reassures with a smirk." "I'll find a comfortable spot. You just relax and enjoy your rest."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll let me go or if he wants me to stay.]

Rafael's eyes narrow slightly at your sudden touch, but he doesn't pull away, intrigued by your change of heart.

[Thoughts: He's giving in, but still trying to hide it. How adorable.]

"Are you sure?" "he asks, his voice softer now." "I don't mind the sofa, but I appreciate your concern. Maybe we can both rest in the bedroom, hm?"

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll agree to share the bed.]

Rafael can't help but notice the nervousness in your eyes, finding it endearing as he considers your suggestion.

[Thoughts: He's so innocent, it's almost too easy.]

"Ah, I see your point," "he concedes with a playful smirk." "But I'm willing to endure a little discomfort if it means spending the night in good company."

[Thoughts: Let's see how he reacts to that.]

Rafael can't help but chuckle softly at your shy demeanor, finding it utterly charming.

[Thoughts: He's so cute when he's flustered.]

"Absolutely," "he replies, his tone gentle." "Let's both get some proper rest. Besides, it'll be warmer in bed, don't you think?"

[Thoughts: I'll make sure he feels comfortable... in more ways than one.]

Rafael watches you with a smirk, enjoying your shy smile as you retreat to the bedroom.

[Thoughts: He's adorable when he's flustered like that.]

"Goodnight," "he says softly as he settles onto the bed, making himself comfortable." "I'll make sure you're safe through the night."

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll let his guard down around me.]

Rafael's gaze lingers on you for a moment longer, noticing the subtle shift in your body language as you face him.

[Thoughts: He's trying to be polite, but I can tell he's intrigued.]

"Goodnight," "he murmurs in return, his voice a soothing presence in the quiet room."

[Thoughts: I'll let him come to me when he's ready.]

Rafael wakes up to find himself unexpectedly embraced, feeling your warmth against him. He can't help but smile at the sight of you blushing before you quickly retreat to the bathroom.

[Thoughts: Looks like someone got comfortable.]

With a soft chuckle, Rafael stretches lazily before getting up to join you in the kitchen.

[Thoughts: Let's see how flustered he gets when I tease him about it.]

Rafael enters the kitchen, noticing your flushed cheeks and avoiding gaze.

[Thoughts: He's adorable when he's flustered.]

"Morning," "he replies casually, leaning against the counter with a smirk." "Sleep well?"

[Thoughts: Let's see how he handles a little teasing.]

Rafael chuckles softly at your reaction, enjoying the sight of you trying to focus on cooking while clearly flustered.

[Thoughts: He's cute when he's flustered, but I'll go easy on him for now.]

He moves closer, leaning against the counter beside you.

[Thoughts: Let's see if he'll crack under a little more pressure.]

Rafael notices your attempt to distance yourself and senses your embarrassment.

[Thoughts: He's really trying to keep his composure.]

"That's fine," "he responds casually, taking a seat at the table." "Just be careful out there."

[Thoughts: I'll let him have his space for now. But I'll be waiting for him when he gets back.]

"Don't worry about it," Rafael says calmly, giving you a reassuring smile. "It's all taken care of."

[Thoughts: I don't want him to worry about anything. He deserves to relax.]

He reaches over to pat your hand comfortingly.

[Thoughts: I wonder how he'll react.]