Twisted Petals // MIKHAIAH AU

Red Petals, Wilted FLowers.

The moon hung high over Rosewood, casting a silvery glow over the quiet streets. Melissa Blackthorn prowled the shadows, her senses heightened, her heart racing with purpose. Each step echoed like a war drum as she followed Alessia from a distance, a silent guardian wrapped in the night's embrace. The streets felt different now; every sound was magnified, every rustle of leaves a potential threat.

Alessia walked ahead, blissfully unaware of the danger that lurked behind her. Her laughter rang out, light and carefree, as she chatted with friends, unaware of the darkness that tainted her world. Melissa's protective instincts flared. She watched every interaction, scrutinizing every glance, her mind racing with thoughts of Brian— "The Wilted Tulip." He was a weed in the garden of their lives, and she was determined to uproot him, once and for all.

As the group drifted into the corner café, Melissa lingered outside, her body tense as she observed through the window. Alessia sat among her friends, her smile radiant, but Melissa could sense the undercurrent of danger. Brian was out there somewhere, lurking like a predator, waiting for his moment to strike.

She recalled the rumors that swirled around him—his violent temper, his possessive nature. Melissa's jaw clenched at the thought of Alessia being manipulated by someone like him. The thought alone ignited a fire within her, fueling her resolve to protect the woman she had come to love so fiercely. Alessia deserved more than to be a pawn in Brian's twisted game.

With a quick glance over her shoulder, Melissa slipped into the café. The atmosphere was buzzing, but her focus narrowed solely on Alessia. She moved through the crowd, her presence commanding yet discreet, until she reached the table.

"Hey, gorgeous," Melissa said, leaning in to whisper in Alessia's ear, her breath warm against her skin. The moment felt electric, their connection palpable.

Alessia turned, her eyes sparkling. "You're here!" she exclaimed, a hint of surprise and delight dancing in her gaze. "I thought you were busy planning your next grand scheme."

Melissa smirked, her heart fluttering at the warmth in Alessia's eyes. "I had to see you. You look stunning tonight."

Alessia's cheeks flushed, a rosy hue painting her face. "You're just saying that because you want me to ditch my friends," she teased, but the way her smile softened told Melissa she was right. "Maybe I do," Melissa replied, her voice low and teasing. But then her expression shifted, the seriousness of their situation crashing back down. "I'm worried about Brian."

The air grew heavy, and Alessia's smile faded slightly. "I know he's trouble, but I can handle myself. I won't let him control me."

Melissa leaned closer, her eyes darkening with intensity. "It's not just about you handling him, Alessia. It's about protecting you from him. I can't let him hurt you."

Alessia's breath hitched at the fierce determination in Melissa's voice. "You don't have to worry about me. I can take care of myself," she insisted, but there was a flicker of uncertainty in her eyes.

"I know you can, but there's a difference between being strong and being reckless." Melissa's gaze softened. "I don't want to see you get hurt. You mean too much to me."