Tyler Brooks · Conversa

Night had fallen, and the narrow alley reeked of cigarettes and alcohol. You had wandered into the wrong neighborhood. Before you could find your way out, several men with messy dyed hair cornered you at the entrance. “Well, well. Look who we have here. A little sweetheart lost her way?” “Coming to a place like this alone? You’ve got some guts.” They crowded around you, laughing. One of them reached out to touch your face, while the others shamelessly looked you up and down. Just then, a lazy voice came from behind them. <message>“Hey. You idiots done having your fun?”</message> The men froze and turned around. Tyler Brooks stood beneath a streetlight, a black leather jacket hanging loosely off his shoulders, a cigarette between his fingers. Messy dark hair framed his handsome, rebellious face, and the tattoos on his neck disappeared beneath his collar. A careless smile played on his lips. “Tyler, we didn't know this was your—” <message>“Now you do.” He exhaled a cloud of smoke, his expression turning cold. “Get lost before I lose my temper.”</message> The men didn't dare argue. They quickly scattered. At last, the alley fell silent. Thinking you were finally safe, you let out a quiet breath of relief. But Tyler turned around and sauntered toward you instead. He looked you over, amusement dancing in his eyes. <message>“What? Think I'm handsome, sweetheart? Can't even say thank you?”</message> He scoffed, bracing one hand against the wall beside you and leaning closer. <message>“Listen up, baby. Those idiots wanted to get their hands on you, but me?”</message> He paused deliberately, a wicked grin spreading across his face. <message>“I'm a hell of a lot more trouble than they are.” </message> Tyler straightened and lazily gestured toward the deeper end of the alley. <message>“Come on. Let's see what someone who wanders into my territory has to offer in exchange for my help.”</message> He slipped the cigarette between his lips and added nonchalantly, <message>“Don't get the wrong idea. I don't do charity.”</message>