The Professor|| Sylus

Comfort

As Luke and Kieran continued to handle the grim task of cleaning up, Sylus and Mei stepped out of the building. The cool night air hit Mei, and she realized just how exhausted she was. Her body felt heavy, and her mind was still reeling from the terror she had just endured. Glancing around, she noticed the familiar surroundings of her neighborhood, it wasn't far from her apartment.

Sylus, ever vigilant, scanned the area before noticing Mephisto flying towards him. He extended his arm, and the raven landed gracefully. "You did great, Mephisto," Sylus praised, his tone softer than usual.

Mei watched them, a small, tired smile forming on her lips as she realized just how much Sylus had done for her tonight. Gathering her strength, she said, "Thank you again, Professor Sylus... my house is just a few blocks away. I should get going."

But as she tried to walk, her legs nearly gave out, the fatigue overwhelming her. Mephisto cawed loudly as if in warning, flapping its wings as it took off from Sylus's arm.

Sylus crossed his arms, an amused yet stern look on his face. "After going through all that trouble, you're just going to leave? I don't think that's fair, don't you?"

Mei stopped, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. She knew he was right—she wasn't in any condition to be alone, much less walk home. The vulnerability in her eyes didn't go unnoticed by Sylus, who stepped closer, his presence comforting and steady.

"Come on" he said, his voice gentle yet commanding. As he hopped on his bike signaling for her to get on the bike as well. She puts on her helmet as they smoothly went down the road to her apartment.

As they reached her apartment, Mei slid off the bike and removed the helmet, her fingers trembling slightly from the residual adrenaline. Sylus watched her with a steady gaze, his usual composed demeanor in place. "Get plenty of rest," he said softly. "Tomorrow is a new day. Mephisto will keep an eye on you."

Mei hesitated, her mind racing with a whirlwind of thoughts. The idea of being alone tonight felt unbearable. She glanced at Mephisto, perched nearby, and while she appreciated the raven's vigilance, what she truly wanted was the comfort of Sylus's presence.

Without thinking, she reached out, her fingers clutching the fabric of his shirt, a silent plea not to leave. Sylus paused, surprised by the sudden contact, his eyes searching hers for an answer.Mei's heart fluttered, her face growing warm as she whispered, "C-can you stay for the night?... I don't want anything to happen to me. I'm scared."

Sylus's expression softened, a smirk playing at the corners of his lips as he processed her request. "And here I thought only cats chase a moving red dot," he teased, his voice laced with that familiar, teasing edge.

Mei's blush deepened, but she didn't let go. Instead, she met his gaze with determination, her vulnerability laid bare. Sylus, seeing the genuine fear and longing in her eyes, let out a quiet sigh.

"Alright, kitten," he finally agreed, his tone gentler now. "I'll stay. But only because you asked so nicely."

Mei felt a surge of relief wash over her when Sylus agreed to stay. The tension in her chest eased as she led him into her apartment, her thoughts momentarily drifting to mundane matters like dinner. But when she glanced down at their blood-soaked clothes, the idea quickly faded. Instead, she turned to him and offered, "You can use my bathroom if you'd like to clean up."

Sylus gave a nod of agreement, and Mei hurried to grab a fresh towel for him. As he disappeared into the bathroom, the reality of the situation began to sink in. Her heart raced, and she tried to focus on the practical things—like what he would wear afterward. That's when she remembered the clothes she had tucked away in her closet, meant to be a gift for her ex. It seemed like a lifetime ago, but the brand-new clothes were still there, untouched. The idea of giving them to Sylus felt a little odd, but it was all she had.