✞ᵉᵖᵒᶜʰ✞

𝖇𝖊𝖌𝖚𝖎𝖑𝖊𝖉 |thirteen

"I'm not sure about this, Toni," Peter said, his voice laced with worry, as he gently grasped Antonio's arm. Antonio's eyes met Peter's, and his heart ached. He saw the pain he caused, the weight of their forbidden love bearing down on Peter's frame, his skin pale, his cheeks sunken, and his eyes shadowed by dark circles. He seemed even weaker than he did from when they came to the kingdom.

"It's okay," Antonio whispered, forcing a reassuring smile but Peter could see through his facade. Antonio was worried, and scared.

"I have to do this," Antonio explained, his voice firm, as though he was convincing himself as well. He clenched a piece of paper in his hand. "I can't keep hurting you, Peter. I'd rather starve."

Peter's grip on Antonio's arm tightened. His brows furrowed, and he spoke slowly, but clearly. "You don't have to do this. You're not hurting me, I choose to be with you."

Antonio's eyes dropped, shame and self-loathing swirling inside him. He knew the truth – he was slowly draining Peter's life force. Antonio knew if this kept on much longer, he'd have Peter's blood on his hands. He looked down at the crumpled letter in his hand— an offer from a renowned laboratory, the olive tree he had been praying and searching for.
"Dear Antonio Cruzado." The letter had read. Sure, he had asked around about them but he didn't know how they got access to his full name or address, and he didn't know why they didn't report him to the authorities because of his illegal entry, but he still read the letter.

"We are delighted to receive your inquiry regarding our research initiatives at Argentum Research Institute (ARI). Your willingness to seek assistance in managing your unique abilities resonates deeply with our mission.

At ARI, we specialize in advancing the understanding and support of extraordinary individuals like yourself. Our multidisciplinary team of experts is committed to developing innovative solutions to enhance your well-being and relationships. We understand your concerns about unintended harm to those close to you. Rest assured, our primary objective is to empower you with knowledge and tools to master your inhuman nature.

We invite you to schedule a consultation with our lead researcher to discuss the project details and answer any questions you may have. Please respond to this letter or visit us at the address below."

Below that was an address and their logo, a crescent moon symbol.

After he had read the letter various times, Antonio's resolve solidified. He would do anything to protect Peter from himself and his so-called-love, even if it meant allowing some suspicious scientists to study him and his 'inhuman nature' as they called it.

"I'm doing it," Antonio said, his voice firm, as he looked at Peter. He slowly cupped Peter's face, missing the feel of his once chubby cheeks. "I'll take the risk. For you, for our future."

Peter's expression softened, his hands reaching out to hold Antonio's, a glimmer of hope flickering in his eyes. "Can I... come with you?"

Antonio smiled gently, but he shook his head. "I'm sorry, Peter. I can risk myself but I can't put you in anymore harm." He quickly added, before Peter could protest, "I'm strong enough to protect myself in case anything happens. I promise."

From his expression, Antonio knew Peter didn't like that or agree with him- but he wasn't changing his mind. They eyed each other for a moment, then Peter finally gave in with a sigh. "Fine, but you really have to come back." There was a little smile on his face as he continued, "I can't have you break up with me , and then disappear on me all in the span of a year."

Antonio knew Peter was joking but there was still a painful pang in his chest, even as she chuckled. "I promise I'll be back. And when they fix me, I'll un-breakup with you."