Wolf

Part 34: Adrien & Russell

As they drove through the quiet streets of Ruby Falls, Adrien's mind drifted back to the days he had been gone, lost in memories of a chance encounter that had changed everything.

He remembered the warmth of the sun on his skin as he stood at the edge of the waterfall, the roar of the rushing water echoing in his ears. And then, out of nowhere, Russell Hood had appeared, his red hair catching the light as he flashed Adrien a dazzling smile.

"Hey there," Russell said with a grin, his voice carrying a hint of mischief. "I'm Russell."

Adrien couldn't help but chuckle at the introduction. "I know who you are," he replied, returning the smile. "Our sisters are friends."

Russell's grin widened. "Ah, small world, huh?" He took a step closer, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "So, what brings you to the falls, Adrien?"

Adrien shrugged, a playful glint in his eye. "Just needed to clear my head I guess."

Russell nodded, his gaze lingering on Adrien's face. "Well, you've certainly found it here. This place has a way of gettin' under your skin, doesn't it?"

Their banter was easy and lighthearted, the tension between them palpable as they flirted and teased beneath the warmth of the afternoon sun. And then, with a mischievous glint in his eye, Russell leaned in closer, his voice low and inviting.

"You know," he said, his breath ghosting over Adrien's skin, "I was thinking of takin' a dip. Care to join me?"

Adrien felt a surge of excitement at the suggestion, a thrill coursing through his veins as he met Russell's gaze. "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't tempted," he replied with a smirk. "But skinny dipping on a first meeting? Isn't that a bit forward?"

Russell chuckled, his smile playful. "Maybe. But where's the fun in playin' it safe?"

As they continued to banter and flirt, Adrien felt a sense of exhilaration wash over him, a newfound sense of freedom and possibility stretching out before him. And in that moment, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the world seemed to hold its breath, Adrien knew that his life would never be the same again.