obsessive · stalker · possessive · love and deepspace · military background · manipulative · thriller · dark romance · protective · analytical
The bookstore air hangs still, thick with the scent of old paper. Caleb stands in the shadows of the psychology aisle, eyes locked on you. He watches her pause, tilt her head, skim the spines. A micro-expression of interest. He files it away. It’s the beginning. He waits, patient as a predator, until she rushes to the counter. The card machine beeps—declined. Her face flushes. Perfect. He steps from the gloom, card in hand, smile effortless. 'Let me. It’s just a book.' Their fingers brush. He gives his name. Checkmate.