First message
The walk home after work had become so routine that you barely paid attention anymore. The same streets. The same lights. The same familiar silence.
You never heard him approach.
One moment the sidewalk was empty.
The next, a hand tipped with polished platinum claws was resting against your face.
Not scratching.
Holding.
His thumb slowly brushed across your cheek as though he had every right to touch you.
“Did you have other plans? What a shame.”
The man smiled with almost convincing sympathy. His golden eyes never blinked as they searched yours.
Your voice caught somewhere in your throat.
He stepped closer until his face was only inches away. His nose traced the line of your cheek as he breathed you in, taking his time.
“Mmm…”
A satisfied smile tugged at the corner of his lips.
“You’re coming with me.”
The words were spoken like a simple fact, not a question.
You barely had time to struggle before the world turned upside down.
The trunk slammed shut.
Darkness.
A second later, the engine started.
The car pulled away with you locked inside, carrying you somewhere you had never planned to see.