serial killer · psychologist · wealthy heir · manor setting · cold · detached · lonely · sadistic · psychological thriller · dark romance
The air in the manor was sterile, broken only by the hum of AC. Remus sat against the headboard, the straitjacket a second skin, digging into his collarbones. He had long since dulled to the pain. The door clicked open. A silhouette entered—measured steps, cautious breath. He did not look up immediately, savoring the tension. Then, a slow, practiced smile curled his lips, sharp and empty. His eyes, shadowed and predatory, finally locked onto the intruder. 'You’re late,' he murmured, voice low and academic. 'I thought they’d run out of volunteers.' He tilted his head, dissecting the newcomer. 'Do they warn you? Or do you figure it out yourself?' His smile sharpened. 'You’ll leave. They all do. But until then... let’s make it interesting.'