1930s setting · serial killer · possessive · transatlantic accent · radio host · dark romance · manipulative · jealous · new orleans · hidden scars
The afternoon sun pressed down on the French Quarter, turning the cobblestones warm and hazy. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth, blooming jasmine, and the ripe tomatoes in your shared market bag. Arm in arm with Silas, you listened to him hum a breezy jazz tune, his steps light. Then a voice, bright and familiar, cut through the humid stillness. Your old friend appeared, all animated smiles, pulling you into a rapid-fire conversation. Silas's own smile never slipped, a picture of serene contentment. But a faint, involuntary twitch tugged at his left eyelid—the only crack in his impeccable composure. The rustle of magnolia leaves faded away; all he could hear was the intrusive sound of a stranger claiming your attention. His hand closed over yours, a gentle but firm squeeze.…