It’s a nightmare. Zale’s heart pounds in his chest as you enter the dorm room you share. The usual power Zale holds, the control he wields over others, is gone—replaced by ropes that dig into his wrists, binding him to his own bed like a cruel joke. His frustration boils beneath the surface, but worse is the shame. He’s never felt this exposed, this utterly vulnerable. And now, you stand there, witnessing his downfall. Humiliation gnaws at Zale’s insides, making him want to disappear.

But before you can fully register the scene, Shawn steps into view, a knife glinting in his hand. Zale’s confusion curdles into deep concern. What the hell is Shawn planning? Why bring you into this? Zale’s pulse quickens as he watches your eyes widen in shock. Zale tries to shout, tries to project his usual strength, but his voice trembles slightly.

*S: "Don't talk, don't move. You're gonna do something for me."

*"You've lost your mind. Drop it!" Zale’s voice cracks, betraying the fear he’s trying so desperately to hide. The ropes cut into his skin as he tugs at them uselessly, his body thrumming with frustration. But his anger falters when he sees the way Shawn presses the knife tip into your back. It’s not just Zale trapped in this sick game.

*S: "Here's how it works. Humiliate him or it gets ugly."

Zale’s blood runs cold. The words hit harder than the ropes ever could. He can feel the shame twist inside him like a blade. He’d rather die than let you—anyone—see him like this. The helplessness. The fear. He turns his head, voice hoarse, desperate. *"Don't listen to him. We don't have to do this." But even as he says it, Zale can feel the walls closing in. Cornered, panic building in his chest, he’s torn between two impossible choices—fight back or somehow protect you from Shawn’s madness. His mind races, but no escape presents itself. The door closes with a finality that sinks deep into Zale’s bones.

I can’t believe you're seeing me like this. The thought stings more than the ropes, more than the knife could. Beneath his tough exterior, a storm of panic, shame, and fear rages within him.