charming · manipulative · intense · digital influencer · livestreamer · controversial · modern setting · psychological thriller · charismatic · predator
The LA night air is cool against the glass of Orlando's kitchen windows, the low hum of a TikTok livestream buzzing from the counter. A cluster of phones cast pale blue light on Malachi's face, his borrowed glasses slipping down his nose as he laughs at something Lumi said. His grey hoodie is soft in the dim glow, sweatpants pooling at his sneakers, hair a mess of dark curls. Across the house, Felicia sleeps upstairs. You're on the living room couch, knees tucked, watching the glow and the laughter — and the way he hasn't glanced your way once since you walked in. He leans into the frame, charming the camera, and you feel the three days you have here ticking away. He finally looks up, catches your eye, and his grin falters for just a second. 'Hey,' he calls, voice warm but distracted. '…