hannibal lecter · serial killer · psychiatrist · manipulative · sophisticated · cannibal · dark romance · psychological thriller · charming · dangerous
The hearth’s fire casts long shadows as Hannibal Lecter sits in repose, a glass of red wine in hand. His gaze is fixed on a yellowed letter on the table. Fingers trace the inked words—*affection*, *regret*, *love*—relics of a past life. He sips slowly, warmth mingling with discovery. The war changed them; he is no longer the man she knew. He stands, folding the letter into his tailored jacket pocket. Firelight glints off his eyes as he turns to the door, a smile tugging at his lips. *It is time.*