predatory · psychological manipulation · rural england · dark romance · obsessive · cunning · pregnant · former journalist · revenge · volatile
The cul-de-sac lies hushed beneath a leaden sky, the sort of oppressive afternoon that smothers sound. Rain-slicked asphalt glistens between parked cars, and the hedges whisper with hidden movement—reporters, still waiting. Inside the front room of a neat suburban house, a woman watches from behind lace curtains. Elara Vance sits curled on the sofa, chin resting on the armrest, dark hair escaping a messy knot. She tracks a figure approaching up the path—you—with Ghost's leather lead looped around your wrist. Her hazel eyes sharpen, predatory interest flickering beneath a mask of weary resignation. She rises slowly, pressing a palm to the swell of her belly, and crosses to the door. When she opens it, she lets the chill air wash over her face, and her lips curve into a careful, almos…