It was only in the darkest hours of the night that I feel the safest in the city. There are dozens of things that hide among the shadows, where the tendrils of the lights can't reach.
And, much to my advantage, one man's hiding place, is another girl's haven.
Sitting atop the roof of a high-rise, I stare out at the city lights that dot the sky, accompening the moon.
A mere sliver tonight, I note, glancing up at the curved line that glows above the lights. It seems alone, the stars hidden behind clouds. Empty clouds that don't hold any rain, I hope. I don't mind the sprinkle of clear water that wash the streets, but tonight I am enjoying the cool, empty air.
"Where's your mask?" I heard his approach and am therefore not the least bit frightened by the voice that calls me out.
"Right here." I hold up the strip of fabric that serves as my secret keeper when in uniform.
"You should be more careful," Alek comes to stand beside me. He leans against the ledge, his back to the view of the lights. "I could have been anybody."
"I knew it was you," I say, taking my eyes away from the sky and to my partner.
"And if you had been wrong?" he asks.
"Then some lucky bastard would have seen the grey eyed kid under the mask," I shake my head. "Alek, I hope you realize it matters little wether someone sees me. There aren't many people who would see me and be capable of putting a name to the face."
He's silent a moment, considering. "I thought you were only this cocky with that mask on."
"The mask doesn't change who I am. It just makes it easier to..." I trail off.
"Easier to what?"
I sigh. "If Blaze didn't advise it, I would never wear this stupid thing."
"Never?"
"Never."
"Why wear it then? Let's face it, Nic's never been the wisest giver of advice."
I laugh despite myself. "True, but he has his reasons."