The scorching sun beat down relentlessly upon the vast expanse of the desert as Neato and Roman trudged forward in silence. The heat waves distorted the air, creating a mirage-like effect on the horizon.
Neato, trailing behind Roman, felt a surge of frustration and desperation. His hand instinctively reached for his pistol, fingers curling around the cold metal as he contemplated his next move. With cautious precision, he brought the gun up, aiming it at the back of Roman's head.
Roman's voice sliced through the tense silence, sharp and commanding.
Roman: "Don't even think about it, Neato."
Neato's grip tightened on the pistol, his gaze flickering with uncertainty. After a moment's hesitation, he slowly lowered the weapon, a resigned expression crossing his features.
Neato: "Fine."
As they continued their journey, Neato's mood shifted, his demeanor turning playful and lighthearted. He began to chatter away, cracking jokes and making sarcastic remarks, his words a stark contrast to the solemnity of their surroundings.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the desert sands, Roman halted their progress.
Roman: "Let's set up camp. The sun is setting."
Neato nodded in agreement, grateful for the respite from their arduous journey. Roman retrieved an outdoor sleeping bag from his pack and settled down, preparing for rest.
Neato's expression soured as he realized he had no sleeping gear of his own. His frustration boiled over into anger, his voice rising in protest.
Neato: "Where's mine?"
Roman's response was curt and indifferent.
Roman: "Didn't you bring your own?"
Neato cursed under his breath, his temper flaring as he contemplated his options. With a resigned sigh, he resigned himself to his fate.
Neato: "Fine, I'll sleep on the sand then."
An uncomfortable silence settled between them, broken only by the soft rustle of the desert breeze. Neato's thoughts turned inward, a nagging question burning in his mind.
Neato: "Why did you choose me of all people?"
Roman's response was devoid of emotion, his voice carrying a weight of inevitability.
Roman: "Because you're a killer, Neato. No matter who's good or evil, you will kill. Isn't that right?"
A pang of sadness washed over Neato, his expression betraying the depth of his inner turmoil.
Neato: "If only you knew."
END OF CHAPTER 4