Not Too Far to Walk
By SMYGO4EVA
Even in during the hustle and bustle of Paris, Dante wanted to have at least one day without dealing with that quack doctor's inane ramblings or any crazy hijinks related to vampires.
Scratch that, though he's a dhampir himself, he would give anything for some peace and quiet.
And, of course, that was when Johann came in.
"Oh come now, there is no need to be all gloom and doom. That's not a good look for you," He said aloud, as he and Dante were seated in front of the nearby café they just happened to
"Ugh, give me a break, why are you out and about anyway?" Dante grumbled, arms crossed and brows furrowed, just as Johann sipped his cup of coffee. "And to add to that, where's the runt?"
Johann's eyes twinkled. "Oh Riche? She has the day off, and she's spending it anyway she wants."
Dante made an affirming noise, and Johann set his cup of coffee down on the table, a serious expression taking over his features.
"Still, I can't help but worry, and for you as well. I feel an obligation to protect you, from who knows what could be lurking in the shadows as we speak." Johann spoke, his voice firm and resolute, a tone that Dante had heard before, but it never ceased to make him set upright.
And now…
"Oh well, you don't have to, I'm not worth fussing over." Dante replied, looking away from the fellow dhampir's gaze. "No matter what you say or do, I know better."
"Don't say that, Dante. You are important. I'm here for you and Riche. I always have been, and I always will, and don't try to tell me otherwise."
Dante looked back at Johann, their eyes meeting halfway. The information broker shook his head, his face turning pink and scowling. "Okay, okay, I get your point, Johann." He grumbled under his breath.
Johann blinked, and then smiled, chuckling at Dante's demeanor. "Glad to hear it." He then sipped the last of his coffee, stood up from his seat, leaving a tip under the dish, and pulled Dante up to his feet.
"Now, let us go to see all the sights Paris has to offer, shall we?"
Dante blinked and groaned out loud. "Fine, fine, what the hell, let's just go."
"Wonderful!"
Johann let out a laugh, and then took Dante's hand, walking together further to the city of lights. Dante resigned himself to Johann's company, yet he could not help the smile growing in his face.