Morningside Cuesta fireborn

He lived to start fires and get under others' skin. The warning glance she gave him proved he'd done it, and a smug grin sat comfortably on his lips as if it was a familiar expression of his. "Don't make me take you up on that challenge, Halfpint." He quipped back with a sensual rumble to his throat, a glint in his eyes. She would never know it, but he was all talk. He actually very much respected the ladies, but the most important one he'd had in his life had damaged him so badly, it may be irreparable. His brother had helped with that, but that utmost betrayal still stung, would probably always sting, and it left a truly ugly scar upon his soul.

She'd made it safely to the other side, his banter really just a cover so he could make sure she got there before heading on his way. She was reckless and headstrong, he liked that, and if anything HAD happened to her, he would have dashed right in to save her....he was a stupid softy for all his snark. "Congrats, Ember! You've proven me wrong." He bowed in acknowledgement though the whole response had just a slight edge of mockery, still treating her like a dainty princess.