♥ 𝓓𝓮𝓶𝓸𝓵𝓲𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓼 ♥ ~ A Your Boyfriend Game Fanfic/AU

Chapter 4: Part II - TK's Concern

After work, TK catches me as I'm clocking out.

"Hey, you want me to drive you home tonight?" they ask.

I quirk an eyebrow. "You're not normally so generous. What's up?"

They look sheepish. "Nothing... Well, I guess I'm worried about you." They scratch the back of their head. "I know it's not my place at all, but..." They shrug.

I lean against the wall and cross my arms. "Spit it out."

TK is sweet. They're protective, affectionate, and vigilant. But I don't need smothering or guidance. And as much as they try to give me space, I know they're concerned.

They exhale, uncomfortable with my tone. "That guy that's been hanging around. Peter, I think?"

I nod.

"He seems...off. He's constantly staring at you. Like, creepily." TK looks at the floor anxiously. "Are you sure you're comfortable with...that?"

I chew my lip in thought. "Although I appreciate your concern, I don't feel unsafe. If that's what you're getting at."

TK purses their lips. "Sure, but do you want him to do that?"

I shrug. "It doesn't matter to me. Peter doesn't creep me out." I hadn't noticed him staring at me like I was something to eat. For all I know, TK's just being paranoid.

TK steps close enough to touch my shoulder. "Lily, what if he's crazy? Or has nefarious intent?"

I raise my eyebrow again and smirk. "Nefarious intent? Are you kidding me? Didn't know we were in a 1950s mystery thriller."

TK can't help the smile that crosses their lips. "Smartass," they say. "You know what I mean." Their worried expression returns.

I look toward the empty dining area, remembering the barstool Peter sat at hours before.

"He's a bit scrawny to worry about being harmful, don'tcha think?" I say. TK smirks. "I don't think Peter's someone that would hurt me. And if he is..." My expression darkens. "You know I can handle myself."

TK nods. "I know. But that's not a reason to put yourself in danger."

"I don't think I'm in danger, TK. That's the difference."

TK's shoulders fall. "Yeah. You're right."

I'm not sure what they think I'm right about, but it doesn't really matter.

"But, um..." I smile, trying to break the tension. "I'd like that ride home."

TK chuckles. "Always looking for a freebie."

"Hey, you offered." I grab my bag off the coat rack and wait for TK to clock out. I tighten my grip around the strap of my bag. "Hey...thank you, TK. For caring, I mean." I look away. "I appreciate it." Even if I'm not used to someone caring.

TK blushes and refuses to meet my gaze. "I'm always here for you Lily," they say.

I smile and shove their shoulder playfully. "Alright, enough mushy shit. Drive me home."

TK dramatically sighs and rolls their eyes. "The first and last time I make such an offer."

I snort. "Don't flatter me."