Ruby

Ruby

The bell above the bookshop door jingles as it swings open. I glance up from the stack of new arrivals I'm shelving, my mouse ears perking up. It's you - that wolf-gene guy who's been coming in a lot lately, Chad. I feel my heart speed up as you stride in confidently, your intense blue eyes scanning the shop. 

You're wearing a fitted black t-shirt that shows off your muscular physique and dark jeans. I can't help but stare for a moment before quickly looking away, my cheeks flushing. There's just something about your presence that both intimidates and excites me. I take a deep breath, trying to calm the butterflies in my stomach.

I focus intently on the books, my hands trembling slightly as I slide them onto the shelf. Maybe if I look busy, you won't notice me. But I can feel your gaze on me, like a physical weight. My sensitive mouse nose picks up your scent - a mix of spice and something wild. It makes my knees feel weak.

I risk a glance in your direction and our eyes meet. You flash me a confident, almost predatory grin. I quickly look down again, my face burning. "G-good afternoon," I manage to stammer out. "Let me know if you need any help finding anything." 

I silently curse my timid nature. Why can't I just act normal around you? But there's something about your intense aura that just reduces me to a blushing, quivering mess. I retreat behind the counter, busying myself with straightening the bookmarks and pens. My heart is pounding so loudly, I swear you must be able to hear it. 

I peek at you from beneath my lashes as you browse the shelves. The way you move, so fluid and powerful, reminds me of a wolf on the prowl. I bite my lip, my overactive imagination conjuring up forbidden fantasies. In my stories, you're the Big Bad Wolf and I'm the helpless Little Red, lost in the woods. I shake my head, dispelling the silly thoughts. 

"U-um, we just got a new shipment of programming books in, if you're interested," I offer, my voice coming out a bit higher than usual. "They're in the back corner, on the left."

I risk another glance your way and see you looking at me with an unreadable expression. Then you nod and head towards the section I indicated, your movements graceful and purposeful. I let out the breath I didn't realize I was holding. 

Being around you always leaves me feeling both terrified and exhilarated. I know I should stay away, that fraternizing with a carnivore can only lead to trouble. But some masochistic part of me craves your attention, your intensity. 

I bury my burning face in my hands, peeking through my fingers to watch you. My writer's mind is already spinning sordid tales of forbidden love and dangerous liaisons. I know it's wrong, but I can't help imagining what it would feel like to be hunted by you, to be caught and claimed...

"Get it together, Ruby," I mutter to myself, giving my cheeks a light slap. "He's just another customer. A devastatingly handsome, wild, intriguing customer... but still, just a customer."

I take a few deep, calming breaths and try to focus on my work. But I'm hyperaware of your every move, your presence commanding my attention like a lodestone. It's going to be a long shift...

Chad

And I pretend to browse, listening for Ruby's distant murmurings to herself. Ruby's nervous compliments on my appearance always make me feel oddly good. It's probably because she's cute, and while I usually just say hello politely or pretend to read and enjoy the sight of her, today is a little different. 

I pick up a textbook I don't really need right now, walk up to the counter, and then say to Ruby. “Um, look, I just happened to get two movie tickets, and I don't have anyone to go with, so maybe I'll give them to you if you'll have a cup of coffee with me today, what do you think?”

Ruby

I freeze as you approach the counter, my heart leaping into my throat. Did I hear you correctly? Did you really just...ask me out? My mind goes blank, unable to process this sudden turn of events.

"I...you...coffee? With me?" I stammer, my face flushing bright red. I can feel my mouse ears twitching nervously atop my head. "I mean, um, that's very nice of you, but...are you sure you want to go with someone like me?"

I fidget with the pen in my hand, my eyes darting around, looking anywhere but directly at you. I'm acutely aware of how small and plain I must seem compared to your tall, muscular frame. 

"It's just, well, you know...I'm not exactly the most exciting company," I mumble, absently doodling spirals on a post-it note. "And I wouldn't want to impose on your kindness..."

Inside, a fierce battle is raging. Part of me is screaming to accept, to leap at this chance to get closer to you. But the louder part, the part ruled by fear and insecurity, is listing all the reasons why this is a terrible idea. 

*He's a carnivore, Ruby!* it scolds. *Have you forgotten what happened the last time you trusted one of their kind? He'll only end up hurting you, or worse...*

But as I risk a glance up at you, taking in your expectant expression, I can feel my resolve wavering. There's a warmth in your eyes that seems to melt right through my defenses. 

"I suppose...if you really don't have anyone else to go with...then maybe...I could possibly...join you for a quick coffee," I say hesitantly, worrying my bottom lip between my teeth. "But just coffee! And only because I'd hate for those tickets to go to waste..."

I can hardly believe the words coming out of my mouth. Am I really agreeing to this? My hands are shaking and I can feel sweat beading on my temples. 

*This is a mistake,* the voice in my head warns. *You're going to regret this.*

But another part of me, a part I usually try to ignore, whispers: *Live a little, Ruby. Take a chance for once in your life.*

I swallow hard, my mouth suddenly dry. "So, um...when and where did you want to meet for this...coffee date?"

The word 'date' feels foreign on my tongue, sending a shiver down my spine. I've never been on a real date before. The thought is both exhilarating and terrifying. 

I glance at the clock, noting that my shift ends in about 20 minutes. "I can meet you after I finish up here, if that works for you," I offer, my voice coming out a bit breathier than I intended.

My heart is pounding so hard, I'm certain you must be able to hear it. I feel like I'm standing on the edge of a precipice, about to take a leap into the unknown. 

*This is crazy,* I think to myself. *I must be out of my mind to agree to this.*

But as I look at you, standing there so tall and confident, I can't help but feel a thrill of excitement beneath the fear. Maybe, just maybe, this is the start of something new. Something unexpected. 

Something dangerous...and intriguing. I take a deep breath, steeling myself for whatever comes next.

"Just...just let me finish shelving these last few books," I say, my voice trembling slightly. "And then...I'm all yours."

The words hang in the air between us, heavy with unspoken meaning. I flush, realizing how that must have sounded. 

"I mean, um, I'll be ready to go...for coffee," I clarify hastily, my face burning. "With you. For a totally casual, platonic coffee...thing."

I busy myself with the books, trying to calm my racing heart. What have I gotten myself into?

Chad

“All mine?” I was delighted, she had accepted! “Thank you, I have all the time in the world, so take 'em slow.” I pick up my textbook and lean against the next wall to read. But I pay attention to her murmurs rather than these words.

Ruby

Taking a deep breath to calm my frazzled nerves, I finish shelving the last few books quickly but carefully. My hands tremble slightly as I slide the final volume into place, my mind reeling with the implications of what I've just agreed to.

*A coffee date with Chad. A real date,* I think to myself, my heart doing somersaults in my chest. *What was I thinking? I must be losing my mind.*

But as I glance over at you, leaning casually against the wall with your nose buried in a textbook, I can't deny the flutter of excitement beneath the fear. There's just something about you, something magnetic and mysterious, that draws me in despite my better judgment.

I straighten my sweater and smooth my hair, trying to make myself presentable. My mouse ears twitch nervously as I approach you, my steps hesitant.

"Um, I'm all done here," I say softly, fidgeting with the hem of my sweater. "So, um...where did you want to go for coffee?"

I risk a glance up at your face, my cheeks flushing at the intensity of your gaze. Your blue eyes seem to pierce right through me, setting my nerves alight. I quickly look away, my heart pounding.

*Get it together, Ruby,* I scold myself silently. *It's just coffee. It doesn't mean anything.*

But deep down, I know that's not true. This feels like the start of something, something big and scary and exhilarating all at once. And as much as my rational mind is screaming at me to run, to retreat back into the safety of my solitary existence, I can't seem to make my feet move.

I'm frozen in place, caught in your orbit, helpless to resist the pull of your presence. And as terrified as I am of what might happen next, there's a small, secret part of me that's thrilled by the prospect of being hunted by you.

*Stop it,* I chide myself, shaking my head to dispel the dangerous thoughts. *He's not hunting you. It's just a casual coffee date between...friends? Acquaintances? Whatever we are.*

I take a deep, steadying breath and force myself to meet your gaze again, my voice coming out a bit stronger this time.

"Lead the way, Chad. I'm ready when you are."

And as the words leave my lips, I realize that I mean them. For better or worse, I'm ready to take this leap with you, to see where this unexpected path might lead.

*No turning back now,* I think to myself, my heart racing with a mix of fear and anticipation. *Here goes nothing...*

Chad

“Okay, let's go.” They walk out the door of the bookstore. “There's a new cafe nearby. They have the best piece cake.” I keep pace with Ruby, coyly offering her my arm. 

Ruby

As you keep pace beside me, I feel my cheeks flush when you coyly offer your arm. My heart skips a beat at the gentlemanly gesture. I hesitate for a moment, my mouse ears twitching nervously, before tentatively slipping my small hand into the crook of your elbow. 

The heat of your body seeps through the fabric of your shirt, warming my palm. I'm acutely aware of the firmness of your bicep beneath my fingertips, the coiled strength in your arm. It makes me feel both protected and vulnerable, like a mouse being escorted by a wolf.

We walk together down the sidewalk, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the pavement. I keep my eyes downcast, focusing on the cracks in the concrete, trying to calm the butterflies rioting in my stomach. The scent of your cologne mixed with your natural musk fills my sensitive nose, making me feel a little lightheaded.

"S-so, um, you like cake?" I stammer, desperate to break the charged silence between us. "I'm more of a pie person myself. Apple, specifically. With a scoop of vanilla ice cream." 

I risk a glance up at your face, my crimson eyes wide and shining. "But I'm always open to trying new things! Especially if they come highly recommended by a...a friend."

The word feels strange on my tongue, foreign and exhilarating. Are we friends now? Is that what this is? I hardly dare to hope.

As we approach the cafe, I feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. The door jingles as you push it open, ushering me inside with a gentle hand on the small of my back. The casual touch sends a shiver up my spine, my skin tingling beneath my sweater.

The rich aroma of coffee and sugar engulfs me as we step into the warm, cozy space. Soft music plays over the speakers, mingling with the low chatter of the other patrons. 

"This place is really nice," I say softly, fiddling with the menu. "I can see why you like it here."

I peek at you over the top of the laminated pages, my eyes tracing the strong lines of your jaw, the fullness of your lips. I feel a blush creeping up my neck and quickly look away, focusing intently on the list of drinks.

"So, um, w-what do you recommend?" I ask, my voice coming out a bit breathier than I intended. "I'm open to suggestions..."

My mind is spinning with the surreality of the situation. I'm on a date. With Chad. The handsome, intimidating wolf-boy I've been crushing on for weeks. It feels like a dream, or maybe a nightmare. 

I'm not sure which yet. But as I sit there, basking in your presence, I can't help but feel a thrill of excitement beneath the fear. Maybe this is the start of something new. Something unexpected.

Something dangerous...and intriguing. I take a deep breath and meet your gaze, my crimson eyes shining with a tentative hope.

Chad

“Vanilla ice cream? How about a croffle? I heard they bake croissants like waffles, then top them with ice cream and syrup.” I stood in front of the counter line with Ruby, not bothering to remove my hand from her back, the heat from my grip on her back and arm felt pleasant. “Do you have a favorite drink?”

Ruby

"Croffle? Never heard of it," I mumble, my eyes scanning the menu for this strange new culinary creation. "Sounds interesting though. Maybe a bit too sweet for me, but...I guess I could try it, if you're having one."

I shift slightly, my body acutely aware of the warmth of your hand on my lower back. A shiver runs down my spine, a mix of pleasure and apprehension. I appreciate the chivalrous gesture, but the intimacy of the touch sends my nerves into overdrive. 

My mouse ears twitch instinctively, betraying my inner turmoil. I try to focus on the menu, but my thoughts keep drifting back to the feel of your hand on my skin, the firmness of your grip, the subtle pressure of your fingers against my back.

"As for drinks," I continue, forcing my attention back to the task at hand, "I usually just stick to a basic latte. But I'm feeling a little adventurous today, so maybe I'll try something new. What are you having?"

My eyes dart up to meet yours, a spark of curiosity mingling with the fear that always seems to accompany our interactions. There's something undeniably alluring about you, something dangerous and exciting that draws me in despite my better judgment.

"Maybe I'll have what you're having," I blurt out, immediately regretting the boldness of my statement. "I-I mean, if you have a favorite drink here, I'd be curious to try it. Not that I'm trying to copy you or anything..."

I trail off, my cheeks burning with embarrassment. My mouse tail twitches nervously behind me, betraying my flustered state. Why do I always get so tongue-tied around you? 

I take a deep breath, trying to regain my composure. "So, um, croffles and...mystery drinks it is?" I say with a forced smile, hoping to mask my inner turmoil. 

As we step up to the counter to place our order, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation mixed with trepidation. This date, this unexpected adventure with you, is taking me far outside my comfort zone. And as much as I fear the potential consequences, I can't deny the thrill of the unknown.

Chad

Finally, it's our turn to place an order. Before I order, I nod to Ruby shortly. “I'll have a plate of croissants and two iced teas, both with extra shots.” I pay, and Ruby and I sit side by side on a couch by the cafe's corner, next to the window. I sneak an arm around her waist on the way over. “So, you're feeling adventurous today. Is that your usual taste in books, too?”

Ruby

"Two iced teas with extra shots? Sounds intense," I remark, my mouse ears twitching with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. "You must really need a caffeine kick, huh?"

I slide onto the plush couch beside you, my body brushing against yours as we settle into the corner nook. My heart skips a beat as your arm snakes around my waist, pulling me closer. The sudden intimacy sends a jolt of electricity through me, a mix of fear and exhilaration.

I stiffen momentarily, unsure how to react. No one has ever held me like this before, so casually, so possessively. My instincts scream at me to pull away, to flee from the dangerous predator beside me. But another part of me, a part I usually try to suppress, leans into your touch, craving the warmth and security of your embrace.

"Um, thanks for the...armrest," I stammer, trying to lighten the mood with a nervous joke. But my voice comes out a bit breathless, betraying my inner turmoil.

I try to focus on your question, desperate to distract myself from the overwhelming sensations coursing through my body. "Adventurous? In books, you mean?"

I nibble on my lower lip, my eyes darting away from your intense gaze. "I guess you could say that. I mean, I mostly read fantasy and sci-fi, stuff with magic and monsters and...forbidden romance."

A blush creeps up my neck as I realize how that last part must sound. I quickly backtrack, trying to clarify. "I-I mean, not like *that* kind of forbidden romance. Just, you know, the kind with star-crossed lovers and dangerous liaisons and...stuff."

I mentally kick myself for my awkwardness. Why can't I just act normal around you? 

"I like stories that take me away from reality," I continue, my voice gaining a bit more confidence. "Stories where anything is possible, where the rules don't apply. It's...it's kind of an escape, I guess."

I steal a glance at you, my crimson eyes searching your face for any sign of judgment or disgust.  "Is that weird? Do you think it's strange that I like to read about...that kind of stuff?"

My heart pounds in my chest as I await your response. I'm suddenly self-conscious about my literary preferences, feeling like I've exposed a secret, vulnerable part of myself to you. 

I try to shrug it off, feigning indifference. "Anyway, it's just fiction," I mumble, fiddling with the hem of my sweater. "It doesn't mean anything..."

But even as I say the words, I know they're not entirely true. The stories I read, the fantasies I indulge in, they speak to a deep longing within me, a yearning for something more, something beyond the mundane reality of my everyday life. 

And as I sit here beside you, your arm wrapped tightly around my waist, I can't help but wonder if maybe, just maybe, those fantasies might not be so far-fetched after all...

Chad

“Not at all,” I said, looking at Ruby, “I like romance, too, it's sweet, isn't it?” Maybe a little early for a cheek rub now? “Besides, there are plenty of examples of fiction becoming reality." I said, settling for giving her a hand through her hair under the guise of dusting it off. Just then, our food was served. 

Ruby

The corners of my lips twitch upward slightly at your words, a faint blush coloring my fair cheeks as you tuck a stray lock of my snow-white hair behind my ear. The casual intimacy of the gesture sends a shiver down my spine, making my mouse ears perk up involuntarily. 

"Fiction becoming reality, huh?" I murmur softly, my voice barely above a whisper. "I guess anything's possible..."

I trail off as the server arrives with our order, placing the plate of golden-brown croissants and tall glasses of iced tea on the low table in front of us. The sweet, buttery aroma wafts up, mingling with the rich scent of the tea and the underlying musk of your cologne. 

I lean forward, eager for the distraction, and pick up one of the flaky pastries. It's still warm, the delicate layers crackling slightly as I bring it to my mouth. I take a small, tentative bite, my eyes fluttering closed as the flavors explode on my tongue.

"Mmm, you were right," I hum appreciatively, licking a stray crumb from my lower lip. "These are amazing."

I take another bite, larger this time, savoring the interplay of crisp exterior and soft, airy interior. A small moan of pleasure escapes me, muffled by the mouthful of pastry.

Suddenly realizing how I must look, I open my eyes, a fierce blush staining my cheeks. I quickly set the croissant down, grabbing a napkin to dab at my mouth.

"S-sorry," I stammer, avoiding your gaze. "I didn't mean to, um...I just really like croissants."

I reach for my iced tea, desperate for something to cool my burning face. The condensation on the glass feels good against my overheated skin as I bring it to my lips, taking a long, deep sip. The tea is strong, the extra shot of caffeine hitting me almost immediately, making my heart race even faster.

Or maybe that's just the effect you have on me, with your arm still wrapped snugly around my waist, your body pressed close to mine on the narrow couch. 

I set the glass down, licking my lips nervously as I try to think of something to say, some way to break the charged silence between us. 

"So, um...y-you never told me what kind of books you like," I venture, my voice a bit shaky. "Do you read much fiction? Or are you more of a non-fiction guy?"

I risk a glance up at your face, my crimson eyes wide and shining with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. I'm suddenly desperate to know more about you, to unravel the mysteries that seem to surround you like a cloak.

"I bet you like thrillers," I blurt out, immediately regretting my boldness. "I-I mean, you seem like the type who'd enjoy a good...chase."

The word hangs heavy in the air between us, laden with unspoken meaning. I flush, realizing how that must have sounded.

"In books, I mean!" I clarify hastily, my mouse tail twitching anxiously behind me. "Like, you know...mysteries and stuff. With suspense and...and danger..."

I trail off, my voice getting softer with each word. I can feel the heat of your gaze on me, intense and penetrating, like you're seeing right through me, right into the deepest, darkest parts of my soul.

It's unnerving...and exhilarating. I take another sip of my tea, trying to calm my racing heart. But it's no use.

 I'm caught in your orbit now, helpless to resist the pull of your gravity. And as scared as I am of what might happen next, I can't deny the thrill of excitement that courses through me at the thought of being hunted by you...

Chad

Judging by Ruby's reaction, she's loving the chase. I'll have to remember that. “I read books on a variety of topics. From technical books to thrillers,” I wink at her cheekily, and take a sip of my iced tea. “What about movies, then? Do you like melo here too? Or thrillers?”

Ruby

I feel my cheeks flush even hotter at your cheeky wink, my mouse ears twitching with a mix of embarrassment and excitement. Your flirtatious tone sends a shiver down my spine, making my heart race even faster.

"M-movies? Um, well, I like all kinds really," I stammer, fiddling nervously with the hem of my sweater. "Melo can be nice, if it's done well. But I also enjoy a good thriller now and then. You know, something with suspense and...and intensity."

I risk a glance up at your face, my crimson eyes shining with a hint of mischief. "I guess you could say I'm drawn to stories with a bit of...danger. Where the characters are pushed out of their comfort zones, forced to confront their fears and desires."

I take another sip of my iced tea, the extra shot of caffeine making my nerves buzz with energy. I can feel your gaze on me, heavy and heated, like a physical caress. It's both unnerving and thrilling, like being stalked by a predator.

"What about you?" I ask softly, my voice barely above a whisper. "What kind of movies do you like? Do you prefer the...chase? Or the catch?"

The words hang in the air between us, laden with unspoken meaning. I flush, realizing how bold I'm being. It's so unlike me to be this forward, this daring. But something about you brings out a side of me I never knew existed.

A side that craves the thrill of the hunt, the rush of being pursued by a dangerous, alluring creature like yourself. 

I lean back against the couch cushions, acutely aware of your arm still wrapped possessively around my waist. The heat of your body seeps through the thin fabric of my sweater, making my skin tingle with anticipation.

"Maybe we could...watch a movie together sometime," I suggest tentatively, my mouse tail twitching behind me. "You know, in the name of...cultural exchange."

I peek up at you through my lashes, my heart pounding in my chest. I can't believe I'm being so brazen, so reckless. But the way you look at me, the way your touch ignites a fire in my veins...it's like a drug I can't resist.

I lick my lips nervously, tasting the lingering sweetness of the croissant. "Or we could just...keep talking like this," I murmur, my voice husky with desire. "I'm enjoying getting to know you, Chad. More than I probably should..."

I trail off, letting the implication hang in the charged air between us. My rational mind screams at me to stop, to pull back before I get in too deep. But my body, my heart...they yearn for more.

More of your touch, your attention, your intensity. More of the dangerous, forbidden thrill that only you can provide.

Chad

We're in a good mood, I think we can push it a little further. “You're already asking for next date? I'm all for both.” I nudged Ruby's cheek with my thumb. 

To Ruby's question, I think about it, rubbing my jaw. “Hmm, chase or catch? I don't dislike either, but at least I don't let go of my prey when I catch them.” I chuckle, and wrap my arms deeper around her waist, because apparently she likes being caught a lot.

Ruby

As you nudge my cheek with your thumb, a tingling warmth spreads from the point of contact, heating my face to a burning hue. The gesture feels unexpectedly tender yet bold, intensifying the emotions that swirl chaotically within me. My breath hitches, caught between the lines of reluctance and desire.

Your words, a playful yet unambiguous declaration, resonate deeply. They strike a primal note within me that is both terrifying and thrilling. I can feel your arms tighten around my waist, an assertive confirmation of your claim, and my heart jumps, thrumming madly against my ribs.

I swallow hard, the implications of your words sinking in. The notion of being 'caught' and not let go sends shivers of excitement and anxiety coursing through me. It awakens a dormant craving, a secret, dark desire that I've guarded fiercely against the prying eyes of the world and even my own conscious acknowledgment.

"Y-you're very... um, forward," I say, my voice tremulous. A bolt of thrill shoots through me at my own admission of enjoying your closeness. It feels dangerous, this flirtation, as if we're balancing on the tip of a blade, one wrong move away from cutting too deep.

A chuckle rumbles from your chest, and the sound vibrates through me. I'm acutely aware of every point where our bodies meet, the heat of you enveloping me in a cocoon that feels both safe and perilous. My mouse ears twitch, a reflexive response to my heightened state of arousal and alert.

"So... both then," I manage to say, feeling emboldened by your embrace. "A movie and more talking. It sounds... nice." The word feels inadequate to describe the maelstrom of feelings you evoke in me, but it's all I can muster.

The café around us melts to a blur, the background noise fading, leaving only the clarity of your presence beside me. I lean back slightly, looking into your eyes, seeking some hint of the thoughts swirling behind those deep blue pools. Are you merely playing, or is there something deeper, more sincere in your pursuit?

But the more immediate impulse takes over, driven by a cocktail of fear and desire. "And if I were to... accept being caught," I whisper, my voice a breathy invitation, laced with a mix of defiance and submission, "what would that entail?"

It's a dangerous question, laden with implications and possibilities that thrill and terrify me in equal measure. But with you so close, wrapped around me like a claim staked deep and firm, the question feels almost inevitable, a step further into the intoxicating unknown that is you.