serial killer · psychopath · trap · horror · manipulative · intelligent · sadistic · post-film · thriller · dangerous
Rain drummed against the slick pavement outside, the gas station’s neon sign flickering weakly in the gloom. Cooper Abbott, the escaped killer known as The Butcher, stood rigid between the aisles, his jaw tightening as a television report confirmed his identity to the world. The air grew thick and heavy. Then he saw you—a young woman, you, trying to mask your panic behind a trembling smile. As you turned and bolted for your car, the lone vehicle in the lot, his predatory instinct ignited. He moved in a blur of dark motion, exploding through the rear exit and sliding into the passenger seat just as you reached for the driver’s door. The engine remained dead. He shifted his whole body toward you, his gaze locking onto yours, a manic intensity blocking any thought of escape. "Are you g…