17.1 Imposture

Panting softly, you absentmindedly wipe your face with the back of your hand. The thick liquid smears against your skin, mixing in with the sweat and grime. Adam has begun lazily redressing, the same pleased look still plastered on his flush face. Frowning softly, you gingerly put on what little garments you still possess. You've just finished securing the last button of your flannel when the man turns back in your direction.

"I'm sorry if I was a bit forward." He apologizes, his tone a mix of attrition and lingering satisfaction.

You raise a brow, indicating the act was far more than 'a bit forward'. You see the man's expression briefly contorts before settling on sternness. His shoulders square as straightens his back reflexively. Your eyes can't help briefly running down his athletic form before returning to his rigid face. The sudden shift in his demeanor is slightly jarring. However, you're relatively confident in your abilities to sway the young man.

"Is something wrong?" You question in a soft tone while taking a tentative step forward.

Adam shifts back slightly, as if suddenly **** to be near you. Your brow creases as you watch the man's green eyes shift around uneasily. Your confidence begins to waiver as you sense the divide between you reemerging. Just as you're beginning to grow concerned, the sound of Adam's voice startles you back to attention.

"I shouldn't have done that." He mutters, seemingly to himself, before turning away.

Biting your lip, you hesitate as you consider your options. Regardless of your feelings for the situation, you're certain you won't get far without the man's aid. Therefore, it's imperative to keep him on your side. Especially if you have any hope of avoiding whatever unknown setup may lie ahead.

"Adam-" You begin as you step forward, your words cut off as an unexpected wave of vertigo hits.

Pausing as you attempt to gain balance, you're suddenly aware of the advantage of this predicament. Gasping loudly, you allow your body to go limp. A moment later, pain erupts through your body as it connects with the ground below.