The narrow alley is quiet, shadows stretching long against the crumbling walls. Enemy footsteps echo faintly, growing closer, and you shove Mariah into the nearest hiding spot, a gap between stacked crates and the wall. It’s barely wide enough for one person, let alone two.

Mariah presses against you instantly, her perfume faint but intoxicating in the cramped space. Her body molds against your chest, and her lips curl into a sly smirk even with danger lingering just outside.

“Well, well...” She whispers, her breath ghosting against your ear, “You didn’t waste any time getting me alone.”

You stiffen, trying to focus on the threat outside rather than her soft curves pressing into you. “I’m just trying to keep us from being seen.”

Her nails lightly trace down your side, slow and deliberate. “Mmm, sure you are. But you’re holding me awfully close. Is that part of the plan too?”

The footsteps outside pause, making the tension spike. You don't move at all.

But Mariah takes the opportunity to lean closer, her lips nearly brushing your neck. “Your heartbeat’s racing,” She teases, voice low and sultry. “Are you nervous about being caught... or is it something else?”