I pull the hood farther over my face as I push through the crowd. Poison and waste sting my nose. I hate this part of the city. I feel a hand lightly slip into my pocket, I grab their wrist and whip around to face them. Light orange eyes stare back at me and a smile spreads across his face.

“Welcome to the ruins, _Avinna_” He slips his hand around my waist guiding me into the nearest alley. I don’t protest, I can’t draw any attention to myself.

He pushes the hood off my head and trails his hand down my hair.

“Don’t. Touch me.” I whisper as I push him to the other wall, putting as much space between us as possible.

He grins in response, he enjoys this.

“I little birdy told me that you were in need of a place to stay. Being wanted across the entire kingdom _as well_ I figured you could stay with me.”

His eyes brighten as I pretend to consider his offer.

“Hm. Probably not.” I smile and turn to leave.

I peer around the corner and almost step out into the street until I spot a group of guards patrolling the market, right next to the alley.

“So.” He says, rocking back and forth on his heels, his smile lighting the dark alley, “Change your mind.”

I glance up at the sky, almost dark. I grind my teeth.

_Not like I have any other options-_

“**Fine**.” I groan as he clasps his hands together.

He leans down and lifts an invisible trapdoor, opening an intricate underground tunnel system.

“After you, my lady.” He smirks.

(I think enjoy counts as using joy 🥲)