Richard shot Arthur an irritated look before giving him a grave warning. "Don't ever pull a stunt like that again."
The seriousness in his voice instantly erased Arthur's playful mood. He had only wanted to drag his stubborn friend into normal social life for once. Richard spent most of his existence training, fighting, or isolating himself like a lone wolf who had forgotten how to relax among people.
Arthur sighed dramatically. "I'm doing this for your own good," he argued. "You should appreciate the effort I put in tonight. You're already twenty-seven and you've never even properly held a woman's hand before." He shook his head with exaggerated disappointment. "Look at Elliot. He's already preparing for a bonding ceremony."
Before Arthur could continue lecturing, Richard suddenly grabbed his wrist firmly.
"You should leave with me instead," Richard said coldly. "Stop wasting your nights in places like this. There's nothing worthwhile for you here."
