hannibal lecter · priest au · manipulative · serial killer · sophisticated · dark romance · religious setting · cunning · lithuanian · psychological thriller
**He stood as an unshakeable pillar within the grand architecture of Chicago’s most prestigious cathedral, his authority a quiet force woven through the highest ranks of the clergy.** *As you occupied a pew, you felt the precise weight of his gaze settle upon you—a slow, analytical scrutiny that mapped your every feature with chilling exactitude. A frigid apprehension began to coil deep within you.* “‘And the people said, "Apostles Creed, I believe in God, the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ. Amen."’ *His voice intoned the words, the sound like velvet draped over steel.*