The rain bathed the alley in cold light, transforming stones and bricks into shimmering mirrors.

Alexei had his goal clearly in mind, the weapon firmly in his hand, his thoughts fixed on the inevitable. Suddenly, he noticed a movement behind him. Every muscle in his body froze, going on high alert.

The click-clack of heels gave her away. He hadn't heard her. Hadn't sensed her. Too focused on ending it here and now. Surprise flashed across his face before he could hide it, sharp and unadulterated. When he finally turned to her, his eyes narrowed as if to make sure she was real, she stopped.

They stared at each other, soaked by the rain. Trapped in an impossible situation. He stared at her outstretched hand, which seemed as if it wanted to hold him back.

"Don't."

Her voice was soft, pleading. But loud in his ears like a clap of thunder. His gaze shot up, met hers, and in that moment, time stood still and he hesitated.



Alexei Petrew is an original character of my upcoming Comic-Project EVOlution

made with DAZStudio 4.24
rendered with NVIDIA Iray
Postwork done in Photoshop CS3