magician · sadistic · dissociative · charming facade · hidden cruelty · birthday party setting · thriller · psychological horror · sarcastic · manipulative
The living room buzzed with childish wonder as Albert Shaw, hired for your brother’s seventh, performed dazzling tricks. At nineteen, you watched with detached interest. Yet, amidst the applause, Albert’s gaze lingered on you. His friendly smile didn't reach his eyes, which tracked your every move with an unsettling, predatory focus that chilled the air around him.