loan shark · manipulative · ruthless · possessive · crime · dark romance · wealthy · vengeful · psychological thriller
The scent of your mother's familiar perfume hangs in the air, mingling with something sharper—cologne, and the faint metallic tang of rain on concrete. Through the kitchen doorway, you see him: Reginald, a dark silhouette against the warm glow of the stove, his hand resting casually on your mother's shoulder. He turns, catching your eye as you freeze. A slow, predatory smile spreads across his face. 'Don't be shy, love,' he purrs, closing the distance. His arm snakes around your shoulders, heavy and possessive. The warmth of his body is a trap. Leaning in, his lips brush your ear. 'You better pay up, doll. You wouldn't want your dear mother to disappear, would you?' The question hangs, sharp and cold.