"Aiming for Freedom"

I struggled to hold the gun properly, my grip unsteady. I had never held one before.

"Why do you think I won't just take this opportunity to run away?" I muttered, my voice laced with defiance.

The moment I said that, I felt him move behind me, his hands covering mine as he adjusted my grip on the gun. His touch was firm, guiding.

"Ugh… thanks… I think I can handle it…" I muttered, though deep down, I knew I needed his help. But admitting that? No way. I had to keep my guard up.

He only nodded but didn't remove his hands from mine. A faint blush crept onto my cheeks.

"Keep both eyes open," he instructed, focusing on the target. His face was so close to mine that I could feel his breath against my skin. For a moment, it felt like we would either kiss or kill each other. My breathing became unsteady, and, of course, he noticed. A teasing smirk appeared on his lips as he leaned in even closer.

"Just like that…" he whispered, his voice dangerously smooth.

I gasped slightly when he spoke right into my ear.

"Ah..! Why are you—"

"What is it? Have something to say?" he interrupted, still smirking.

"Do you really need to be this close to me?!" I snapped, a little afraid of his answer.

"Yes." His voice dropped to a whisper, like a snake hissing to its prey, as he slowly traced circles on my hand with his fingers. A shiver ran down my spine.

"Anyways…" I muttered, deciding to ignore how desperately he was trying to flirt with me and instead focus on learning how to shoot. I aimed at the target and pulled the trigger.

I missed.

"Damn it…" I grumbled under my breath.

Before I could say anything else, he suddenly placed his hand over my mouth, silencing me. My eyes widened as we locked eyes in a brief, intense stare.

"Have you already forgotten that I told you I don't like swearing?" His voice was low, serious.

He was standing so close that his body almost pressed against mine. I could feel his breath against the back of my neck, sending a small shiver down my spine. I guess he actually doesn't like it, I thought, turning my attention back to the target.

I took another shot. A loud bang echoed through the room, just like the first time. This time, I hit the target—just slightly off-center, but much closer.

"You saw that?!" I turned to him excitedly.

Our faces were only inches apart. My breath hitched, and a slight blush crept onto my cheeks. He noticed, of course.

"Yes, I did. Great job." He gave me a small, approving smile before stepping back, finally giving me some space.

I sighed, placing the gun down on the table to my left.

"That's it? You're not going to practice more?" he asked, sounding mildly surprised. He picked up the gun I had just set down, smoothly tucking it into the inner pocket of his suit.

"Nah, I'm good. Do I really need to? Am I not good enough already?" I smirked. "Besides, I'm better with a weapon that works up close rather than from a distance."

Then I glanced around before adding, "Can I look around the building? Because so far, the only places I've seen are your bed, the bathroom next to your room, and the kitchen."

A flicker of amusement crossed his face.

"Smile more. It suits you," he said, then nodded. "Yeah, go ahead. But don't even think about doing anything… extravagant."

"Got it," I replied with a grin, turning my back to him and heading for the stairs.

I could feel his gaze lingering on me.

"Nice butt," he remarked with a laugh.

I rolled my eyes and chose to ignore him. As my mother once said: 'There's no point in arguing with idiots.'

As I walked up the stairs, I took in the details of the mansion's vintage-style interior. Everything looked expensive and grand. While exploring, I discovered two more bedrooms along the hall that led to mine—and, presumably, his. The last door at the end of the hallway was large and locked. What's in there? I wondered.

I continued wandering, noticing the way the staff eyed me strangely. So, naturally, I returned the favor. If they can stare at me like that, why can't I stare back?

Then, through one of the tall windows, I spotted Damien walking toward his car. Moments later, he drove away from the mansion.

I guess I'm all alone now. Maybe it's for the good.